Disney names Morgan Stanley’s Gorman to board ahead of expected fight

Walt Disney Co. appointed Morgan Stanley Chief James Gorman and veteran media executive Jeremy Darroch to its board of directors ahead of a expected proxy fight.

Darroch’s appointment will be effective Jan. 9, while Gorman’s will take effect on Feb. 5, Disney said Wednesday in a statement.

Billionaire Nelson Peltz and his Trian Fund Management are planning their own nominees to the board next year. Trian has amassed a $2.66 billion stake in Disney. It also has the backing of Ike Perlmutter, former chairman of Marvel Entertainment, who was fired by Disney after lobbying for Peltz to join the board.