Disney announces exit of animator John Lasseter

He had been on leave after claims of inappropriate conduct

Walt Disney Co animation head and co-founder of Pixar John Lasseter, regarded as a modern day Walt Disney because of his creativity and commercial success, will leave at the end of the year, the company has said.

The decision, announced in a Disney statement, followed a six month leave of absence by Mr. Lasseter after what he called “missteps”, including unwanted hugs that made employees uncomfortable.

Mr. Lasseter was the creative force behind movie hits like

Toy Story ,

Frozen , and

Finding Nemo , that won Academy Awards and reaped billions of dollars at the box office.

“Following his sabbatical, John Lasseter will assume a consulting role at The Walt Disney Company until December 31, 2018, at which time he will be leaving the company,” Disney said.

Disney did not announce a replacement but Chief Executive Bob Iger noted in the statement that Mr. Lasseter had assembled “a team of great storytellers and innovators with the vision and talent to set the standard in animation for generations to come.”

Mr. Lasseter, 61, said in the statement that “the last six months have provided an opportunity to reflect on my life, career and personal priorities.” Mr. Lasseter joined the company in 2006 when Disney bought Pixar Animation Studios.