Disney Chairman Dick Cook Steps Down

Dick Cook, chairman of Walt Disney Studios, abruptly announced Friday that he is immediately leaving the company.

Cook, who started at Disney 38 years ago as a theme park ride operator, said in a statement that he had been thinking about leaving for some time and will be moving on to "new adventures." " No replacement has been announced.

Bob Iger, Disney's chief executive, said in a statement that Cook's "incomparable showmanship" had "truly enriched this company."

Cook's studio has been under fire for quality and performance of its films. Recent movies like "Race to Witch Mountain," "G-Force," and "Bedtime Stories" have been box office flops.

Cook said he thought Disney's upcoming slate of movies is the best in the Mouse's history, the AP reports.

"I have loved every minute of my 38 years that I have worked at Disney, from the beginning as a ride operator on Disneyland's steam train and monorail to my position as chairman of The Walt Disney Studios," he said.