Hasbro has announced the passing of longtime chairman and chief executive officer Brian D. Goldner. He was 58. 

“Brian’s passing is a tremendous loss for Hasbro and the world,” says Edward M. Philip, lead independent director, board of directors, Hasbro. “Brian was universally admired and respected in the industry, and throughout his over 20 years at Hasbro, his inspiring leadership and exuberance left an indelible mark on everything and everyone he touched. A mentor and friend to so many, his passion and creativity took Hasbro to new heights. Our love and thoughts are with his wife, daughter and family during this extraordinarily sad time.” 

Goldner joined Hasbro in 2000 and was appointed chief executive officer in 2008, followed by an appointment as chairman of the board in 2015. According to the company, he was instrumental in transforming the company into a global play and entertainment leader, architecting a strategic Brand Blueprint to create the world’s best play and storytelling experiences. Through his tireless work ethic and unwavering focus, he expanded the company beyond toys and games into television, movies, digital gaming and beyond, to ensure Hasbro’s iconic brands reached every consumer. The culmination of his pioneering strategy was the 2019 acquisition of independent entertainment studio eOne. 

Goldner served on the Board of Directors of ViacomCBS and was the chair of the Compensation Committee. Goldner and his wife Barbara were passionate advocates for improving systems of care for vulnerable members of society. 

Hasbro had recently announced Goldner’s medical leave and his interim replacement, Rich Stoddart. 

“Since joining the company more than two decades ago, Brian has been the heart and soul of Hasbro,” says Stoddart. “As a charismatic and passionate leader in both the play and entertainment industries, Brian’s work brought joy and laughter to children and families around the world. His visionary leadership, kindness and generosity made him beloved by the Hasbro community and everyone he touched. On behalf of the Hasbro family, we extend our deepest, heartfelt condolences to his wife, daughter and entire family.”