Chris Bess

Walt Disney Studios

Director; Global Publicity

Chris Bess is a veteran brand and marketing leader with over three decades of experience shaping some of the world’s most celebrated entertainment properties. As Director of Global Publicity at Walt Disney Studios, he leads home entertainment and streaming PR campaigns worldwide. Chris has guided communications for iconic titles including Avatar, Deadpool, Moana 2, Ford v Ferrari, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, as well as enduring franchises like How to Train Your Dragon, Planet of the Apes, and X-Men. In fact, Chris orchestrated the immersive Pirates of the Caribbean floating retail experience with Target, combining experiential marketing with entertainment to drive engagement and sales. He also spearheaded the Fox Innovation Lab, positioning 20th Century Studios at the forefront of entertainment technology through campaigns integrating 4K, VR, AR, 5G, and machine learning. He also helped launch and promote transformative platforms such as Blu-ray, 4K UHD, and Movies Anywhere, shaping consumer behavior and setting industry benchmarks. Overall, Chris is a respected leader and mentor who uses communications to drive business, social impact, and cultural relevance, while also contributing to industry committees and teaching at UCLA and USC.

Career highlights:

• Led global publicity campaigns for blockbuster films and major franchises, including Avatar, Deadpool, Moana 2, and Pirates of the Caribbean.

• Created the “Glee Give A Note” CSR campaign, distributing $1M in grants to music programs and generating national media coverage.