IMAX CEO Richard Gelfond is on temporary leave of absence to receive treatment for pneumonia.
While he undergoes treatment and recovers, he will not participate in the company’s public or private events, including CinemaCon, an industry gathering in Las Vegas in April. “We are committed to transparency and to ensure there is no speculation arising from Mr. Gelfond’s (absence),” the company said in a statement, adding: “Out of respect for Mr. Gelfond’s privacy during his treatment, we will not be commenting further at this time, but will provide updates as appropriate.”
In Mr. Gelfond’s absence, IMAX’s senior team has been working closely with each other and with Chairman of the Board Darren Throop to carry out day-to-day responsibilities. I also maintain regular contact with the entire Board of Directors. Senior executives include Natasha Fernandez, executive vice president and chief financial officer; Ann Grove, Chief Marketing Officer. Rob Lister, Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, and Mark Welton, President of IMAX Theaters.
“We have a strong and experienced senior management team who are fully committed, including providing regular updates to the Board of Directors, and remain focused on Imax’s continued growth and success,” Throop said. “We all wish Rich well and a full and speedy recovery.”
Imax set a new global box office record of $1.2 billion in 2025, thanks to blockbusters like “F1,” “Avatar: Fire and Ash” and “Sinners.” Looking ahead, IMAX is targeting an even bigger benchmark of $1.4 billion in 2026, as major features such as Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part 3 and The Mandalorian and Grogu prepare for release.
