Bob Iger: Difference between revisions

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| name        = Bob Iger
| name        = Bob Iger
| birth_name  = Robert Alan Iger
| birth_name  = Robert Alan Iger
| birth_date  = {{birth date and age|1951|2|10}}
| birth_date  = {{Birth date and age|1951|2|10}}
| birth_place  = New York City, New York, U.S.
| birth_place  = New York City, New York, U.S.
| nationality  = American
| nationality  = American
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| known_for    = CEO of [[The Walt Disney Company]]
| known_for    = CEO of [[The Walt Disney Company]]
| title        = Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company
| title        = Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company
| employer    = [[The Walt Disney Company]]
| employer    = The Walt Disney Company
| education    = [[Ithaca College]] (B.S.)
| education    = [[Ithaca College]] (B.S.)
| spouse      = {{plainlist|
| spouse      = {{plainlist|
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| awards      = {{plainlist|
| awards      = {{plainlist|
* [[Emmy Award]]
* [[Emmy Award]]
* [[Order of the British Empire|Honorary KBE]]
* [[Order of the British Empire|Honorary CBE]]
}}
}}
| website      = {{URL|https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/leaders/robert-a-iger/}}
| website      = {{URL|thewaltdisneycompany.com/leaders/robert-a-iger/}}
}}
}}


'''Robert Alan Iger''' (born February 10, 1951) is an American media executive who serves as the [[chief executive officer]] (CEO) of [[The Walt Disney Company]]. Over a career spanning more than five decades in the media industry, Iger rose from an entry-level position at [[American Broadcasting Company|ABC]] to the top of one of the world's largest entertainment conglomerates. He served as president of ABC from 1994 to 1995, then as president and chief operating officer of [[Capital Cities/ABC]] from 1995 until its acquisition by Disney in 1996.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert A. Iger — Executive Chairman |url=https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/leaders/robert-a-iger/ |publisher=The Walt Disney Company |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> Named president of Disney in 2000, Iger succeeded [[Michael Eisner]] as CEO in 2005 and led the company through a period of significant expansion, overseeing the acquisitions of [[Pixar]], [[Marvel Entertainment]], [[Lucasfilm]], and the entertainment assets of [[21st Century Fox]].<ref>{{cite news |last= |first= |date=2016-03-08 |title=Star Wars, Shanghai Disney: Bob Iger's Transformation of Disney |url=http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-star-wars-shanghai-disney-20160308-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> During his initial 15-year tenure as CEO, the company's market capitalization grew from approximately $56 billion to $231 billion. Iger stepped down as CEO in 2020 and served as executive chairman until his formal retirement on December 31, 2021. He returned to the CEO role on November 20, 2022, following the dismissal of his successor, [[Bob Chapek]], and his contract was renewed until 2026.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-03 |title=Disney names parks boss Josh D'Amaro as new CEO to replace Bob Iger |url=https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/03/media/disney-new-ceo-josh-damaro-bob-iger |work=CNN |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> In February 2026, Disney announced that Josh D'Amaro would succeed Iger as CEO on March 18, 2026.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-03 |title=Disney names parks boss Josh D'Amaro as new CEO to replace Bob Iger |url=https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/03/media/disney-new-ceo-josh-damaro-bob-iger |work=CNN |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
'''Robert Alan Iger''' (born February 10, 1951) is an American media executive who serves as the [[chief executive officer]] (CEO) of [[The Walt Disney Company]]. Over the course of a career spanning more than five decades in the American media industry, Iger rose from an entry-level position at [[American Broadcasting Company|ABC]] to become one of the most consequential leaders in the history of the entertainment business. During his initial tenure as Disney's CEO from 2005 to 2020, Iger oversaw the acquisitions of [[Pixar]], [[Marvel Entertainment]], [[Lucasfilm]], and the entertainment assets of [[21st Century Fox]], transforming Disney into the world's largest media conglomerate. He expanded the company's theme park presence into East Asia and guided the launch of the [[Disney+]] streaming service. After a brief retirement, Iger returned to the CEO role in November 2022 following the dismissal of his successor, [[Bob Chapek]]. In February 2026, Disney announced that Iger would be succeeded as CEO by [[Josh D'Amaro]] on March 18, 2026, concluding one of the longest and most transformative leadership tenures in modern corporate history.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-03 |title=Disney names parks boss Josh D'Amaro as new CEO to replace Bob Iger |url=https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/03/media/disney-new-ceo-josh-damaro-bob-iger |work=CNN |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


== Early Life ==
== Early Life ==


Robert Alan Iger was born on February 10, 1951, in [[New York City]], New York. He grew up on [[Long Island]], in a middle-class family.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert Iger 1951– Biography |url=http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/biography/F-L/Iger-Robert-1951.html |publisher=Reference for Business |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> His father, Arthur L. Iger, worked in advertising and later as an executive at a marketing firm, while his mother, Mimi, was a homemaker. Iger has described a childhood shaped by his father's struggles with depression and the family's modest financial circumstances, experiences that he later credited with instilling in him a strong work ethic and a determination to succeed in the professional world.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert Iger 1951– Biography |url=http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/biography/F-L/Iger-Robert-1951.html |publisher=Reference for Business |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
Robert Alan Iger was born on February 10, 1951, in New York City, New York.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert A. Iger |url=https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/leaders/robert-a-iger/ |publisher=The Walt Disney Company |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> He grew up on Long Island, where he was raised in a middle-class household. His father, Arthur L. Iger, worked as an advertising executive and later as a college professor, while his mother was a homemaker. Iger has spoken publicly about his father's struggles with depression and bipolar disorder, experiences that shaped his own outlook and resilience.


Growing up, Iger attended public schools on Long Island. He developed interests in television and media at an early age, fascinated by the programming he watched and the possibilities of the medium. These formative experiences on Long Island would later prove foundational as he embarked on a career that would take him to the highest echelons of the American media industry.
Iger developed an interest in media and communications from a young age. He attended local schools on Long Island before pursuing higher education at [[Ithaca College]] in Ithaca, New York, where he studied television and radio. His early experiences in the media environment of New York City and his academic training would lay the groundwork for what became a career defined by leadership within the American broadcasting and entertainment industries.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert Iger 1951– Biography |url=http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/biography/F-L/Iger-Robert-1951.html |publisher=Reference for Business |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


== Education ==
== Education ==


Iger attended [[Ithaca College]] in Ithaca, New York, where he studied television and radio. He graduated from the college's School of Communications with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1973.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert Iger 1951– Biography |url=http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/biography/F-L/Iger-Robert-1951.html |publisher=Reference for Business |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> His education in broadcasting and communications provided the technical and creative grounding for what would become a long career in the television and entertainment industry. Iger has maintained a connection with Ithaca College throughout his career.
Iger enrolled at [[Ithaca College]], where he earned a [[Bachelor of Science]] degree in television and radio from the Roy H. Park School of Communications. During his time at Ithaca, he gained early exposure to the technical and creative elements of broadcast production. He graduated from Ithaca College in 1973.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert Iger 1951– Biography |url=http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/biography/F-L/Iger-Robert-1951.html |publisher=Reference for Business |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> His undergraduate training in broadcasting provided a practical foundation for his entry into the television industry, where he would begin his career shortly after graduation.


== Career ==
== Career ==
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=== Early Career at ABC ===
=== Early Career at ABC ===


After graduating from Ithaca College in 1973, Iger began his career in the television industry at [[American Broadcasting Company|ABC]], starting in a low-level position. He worked his way through various roles within the network over the course of nearly two decades, gaining experience across multiple divisions of the company. His early assignments gave him an operational understanding of television production, programming, and the business side of the broadcasting industry.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert Iger 1951– Biography |url=http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/biography/F-L/Iger-Robert-1951.html |publisher=Reference for Business |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
Following his graduation from Ithaca College, Iger began his career in television at ABC, starting in a lower-level position. He spent nearly two decades working his way up through the ranks of the network during a period of significant change in the American broadcasting landscape. In the late 1980s, Iger's leadership capabilities drew increasing attention within ABC's corporate structure. In March 1989, he was named president of ABC Entertainment, a major milestone in his ascent within the company.<ref>{{cite news |date=1989-03-24 |title=ABC Names Its President of Entertainment |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/03/24/arts/abc-names-its-president-of-entertainment.html |work=The New York Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


By the late 1980s, Iger had risen to a senior leadership position within ABC. In March 1989, he was named president of [[ABC Entertainment]].<ref>{{cite news |date=1989-03-24 |title=ABC Names Its President of Entertainment |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/03/24/arts/abc-names-its-president-of-entertainment.html |work=The New York Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> In this role, Iger oversaw the network's programming and creative output during a competitive period in American broadcasting. He was responsible for developing and scheduling the prime-time lineup and working with producers and talent to shape ABC's on-air identity.
In 1993, Iger was promoted within ABC's restructured divisional hierarchy, taking on broader responsibilities across the network's operations.<ref>{{cite news |date=1993 |title=ABC Ups Iger, Regroups Divisions |url=https://variety.com/1993/scene/news/abc-ups-iger-regroups-divisions-108981/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> By 1994, he had risen to the position of president of the American Broadcasting Company, overseeing the network's programming, news, and business operations. His tenure at ABC was marked by the strengthening of the network's prime-time lineup and its sports programming, including oversight of ''[[Monday Night Football]]'' and ABC's coverage of major sporting events.


In 1993, Iger was promoted within the ABC corporate structure, taking on broader responsibilities as the network reorganized its divisions.<ref>{{cite news |date=1993 |title=ABC Ups Iger, Regroups Divisions |url=https://variety.com/1993/scene/news/abc-ups-iger-regroups-divisions-108981/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> By 1994, he had been named president of ABC, Inc., the parent entity of the television network, giving him oversight of the company's full range of broadcast operations.
=== Capital Cities/ABC and the Disney Acquisition ===


=== Capital Cities/ABC and Disney Acquisition ===
In 1995, Iger was named president and chief operating officer (COO) of [[Capital Cities/ABC]], the parent company of ABC at the time. He served in this capacity during a pivotal period for the company, as Capital Cities/ABC became the target of a major acquisition by The Walt Disney Company. The merger, completed in 1996, brought ABC under the Disney corporate umbrella and marked a turning point both for Disney and for Iger's career. As a senior executive in the combined entity, Iger became one of the most influential figures within Disney's media empire.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert Iger 1951– Biography |url=http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/biography/F-L/Iger-Robert-1951.html |publisher=Reference for Business |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
 
In 1995, Iger became president and chief operating officer (COO) of [[Capital Cities/ABC]], the media conglomerate that owned ABC. This appointment placed him at the top of one of the largest media companies in the United States at the time.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert A. Iger — Executive Chairman |url=https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/leaders/robert-a-iger/ |publisher=The Walt Disney Company |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
 
The same year, The Walt Disney Company announced its acquisition of Capital Cities/ABC in a deal that was among the largest media mergers of the 1990s. The merger, completed in 1996, brought ABC, [[ESPN]], and other media properties under the Disney umbrella. As part of the transition, Iger continued to serve in a senior leadership capacity, managing the integration of the ABC businesses into the larger Disney corporate structure. His operational expertise and familiarity with the television business made him a key figure in the post-merger organization.


=== President of The Walt Disney Company ===
=== President of The Walt Disney Company ===


In January 2000, Iger was named president and chief operating officer of The Walt Disney Company by then-CEO [[Michael Eisner]].<ref>{{cite news |date=2000 |title=Iger Tapped No. 2 as Mouse TV Booms |url=https://variety.com/2000/biz/news/iger-tapped-no-2-as-mouse-tv-booms-1117765636/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> In this role, Iger served as Eisner's top deputy, overseeing day-to-day operations of the company and its various business segments, which included theme parks, filmed entertainment, media networks, and consumer products.
In January 2000, Iger was named president of The Walt Disney Company by then-CEO [[Michael Eisner]], making him the second-highest-ranking executive in the corporation.<ref>{{cite news |date=2000-01-25 |title=Iger Tapped No. 2 as Mouse TV Booms |url=https://variety.com/2000/biz/news/iger-tapped-no-2-as-mouse-tv-booms-1117765636/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> In this role, Iger oversaw Disney's day-to-day operations and served as Eisner's chief deputy during a turbulent period for the company, which included boardroom disputes, a contentious proxy fight led by [[Roy E. Disney]], and public criticism of Eisner's management.


The early 2000s were a period of turmoil for Disney, marked by public disputes between Eisner and prominent board members, including [[Roy E. Disney]], as well as a contested proxy fight. Amid these corporate governance challenges, Iger emerged as the internal candidate to succeed Eisner. He was named Eisner's successor-designate, and the transition was closely watched by Wall Street and the media industry.
Iger emerged as the leading internal candidate to succeed Eisner, despite initial skepticism from some board members and investors who favored an external hire. His steady management style and deep knowledge of Disney's operations ultimately won him the position.


=== CEO of Disney: First Tenure (2005–2020) ===
=== CEO of Disney: First Tenure (2005–2020) ===


On October 1, 2005, Iger officially succeeded Michael Eisner as CEO of The Walt Disney Company.<ref>{{cite news |date=2005-03-14 |title=Disney's New World |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A32493-2005Mar13.html |work=The Washington Post |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2006-01-19 |title=A Magic Kingdom at War |url=http://www.economist.com/displaystory.cfm?story_id=5442077 |work=The Economist |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> His appointment came at a time when the company's relationships with key creative partners—most notably [[Pixar Animation Studios]] and its leader, [[Steve Jobs]]—had deteriorated under Eisner's leadership. One of Iger's first priorities was to repair these relationships and reposition Disney for growth.
Iger succeeded Michael Eisner as CEO of The Walt Disney Company on October 1, 2005.<ref>{{cite news |date=2005-03-14 |title=Eisner to Step Down a Year Early at Disney |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A32493-2005Mar13.html |work=The Washington Post |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2005 |title=The incumbent |url=http://www.economist.com/displaystory.cfm?story_id=5442077 |work=The Economist |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> His appointment marked the beginning of a fifteen-year period during which Disney's market capitalization increased from approximately $56 billion to $231 billion.
 
==== Acquisition of Pixar ====
 
In January 2006, Disney announced the acquisition of Pixar Animation Studios for approximately $7.4 billion in an all-stock transaction. The deal brought Pixar, the studio behind commercially and critically successful animated films including ''[[Toy Story]]'', ''[[Finding Nemo]]'', and ''[[The Incredibles]]'', fully into the Disney fold. The acquisition also brought Steve Jobs onto the Disney board of directors as the company's largest individual shareholder, and placed Pixar's creative leaders, [[John Lasseter]] and [[Ed Catmull]], in charge of [[Walt Disney Animation Studios]].<ref>{{cite news |date=2016-03-08 |title=Star Wars, Shanghai Disney: Bob Iger's Transformation of Disney |url=http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-star-wars-shanghai-disney-20160308-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The Pixar acquisition was seen as a turning point that reinvigorated Disney's animation output and established a template for Iger's subsequent acquisition strategy.


==== Acquisition of Marvel Entertainment ====
==== Acquisition Strategy ====


In August 2009, Disney announced its acquisition of [[Marvel Entertainment]] for approximately $4 billion. The deal gave Disney control over Marvel's extensive library of comic book characters, including [[Iron Man]], [[Spider-Man]] (subject to existing licensing arrangements), [[Captain America]], [[Thor (Marvel Comics)|Thor]], and [[the Avengers]].<ref>{{cite news |date=2016-03-08 |title=Star Wars, Shanghai Disney: Bob Iger's Transformation of Disney |url=http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-star-wars-shanghai-disney-20160308-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> Under Disney's ownership, the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]] (MCU) became one of the most commercially successful film franchises in history, generating billions of dollars in box office revenue and becoming a cornerstone of Disney's filmed entertainment strategy.
The defining feature of Iger's first tenure was a series of transformative acquisitions that reshaped the entertainment industry:


==== Acquisition of Lucasfilm ====
* '''Pixar (2006):''' In January 2006, Disney announced the acquisition of [[Pixar Animation Studios]] for approximately $7.4 billion in an all-stock deal. The purchase brought acclaimed director [[John Lasseter]] and Pixar's creative leadership into Disney, and is credited with revitalizing [[Walt Disney Animation Studios]]. The acquisition also brought [[Steve Jobs]], Pixar's majority shareholder, onto the Disney board of directors.


In October 2012, Disney announced its acquisition of [[Lucasfilm]] for approximately $4.06 billion. The deal brought the ''[[Star Wars]]'' and ''[[Indiana Jones]]'' franchises under Disney ownership.<ref>{{cite news |last= |first= |date=2013-03-07 |title=How Disney Bought Lucasfilm—and Its Plans for Star Wars |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2013-03-07/how-disney-bought-lucasfilm-and-its-plans-for-star-wars |work=Bloomberg Businessweek |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The acquisition was negotiated directly between Iger and Lucasfilm founder [[George Lucas]]. Disney subsequently announced plans for a new trilogy of ''Star Wars'' films, the first of which, ''[[Star Wars: The Force Awakens]]'' (2015), earned more than $2 billion worldwide at the box office. The Lucasfilm acquisition further expanded Disney's portfolio of globally recognized intellectual properties and provided content for theme park expansions, including the ''Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge'' lands at [[Disneyland]] and [[Walt Disney World]].
* '''Marvel Entertainment (2009):''' In August 2009, Disney acquired [[Marvel Entertainment]] for approximately $4 billion. The purchase gave Disney access to a vast library of comic book characters, including [[Iron Man]], [[Spider-Man]], [[Captain America]], and [[The Avengers]]. The Marvel acquisition fueled the development of the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]], which became one of the most commercially successful film franchises in history.


==== Acquisition of 21st Century Fox Assets ====
* '''Lucasfilm (2012):''' In October 2012, Disney acquired [[Lucasfilm]], the entertainment company founded by [[George Lucas]], for approximately $4.06 billion. The deal gave Disney ownership of the ''[[Star Wars]]'' and ''[[Indiana Jones]]'' franchises.<ref>{{cite news |last= |first= |date=2013-03-07 |title=How Disney Bought Lucasfilm—and Its Plans for 'Star Wars' |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2013-03-07/how-disney-bought-lucasfilm-and-its-plans-for-star-wars |work=Bloomberg Businessweek |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> Disney subsequently released a new trilogy of ''Star Wars'' films beginning with ''[[Star Wars: The Force Awakens]]'' in 2015.


In December 2017, Disney announced an agreement to acquire the entertainment assets of [[21st Century Fox]] for approximately $52.4 billion in stock; the deal was later revised to $71.3 billion in cash and stock following a competing bid from [[Comcast]]. The transaction, completed in March 2019, was the largest acquisition in Disney's history and one of the largest media deals ever. It brought 20th Century Fox's film and television studios, the [[FX Networks|FX]] cable networks, [[National Geographic Partners]], Fox's international assets including [[Star India]], and a controlling stake in [[Hulu]] under Disney's control.<ref>{{cite news |date=2016-03-08 |title=Star Wars, Shanghai Disney: Bob Iger's Transformation of Disney |url=http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-star-wars-shanghai-disney-20160308-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The Fox acquisition significantly expanded Disney's content library and international footprint and positioned the company to compete in the emerging streaming marketplace.
* '''21st Century Fox (2019):''' In March 2019, Disney completed its acquisition of the entertainment assets of [[21st Century Fox]] for approximately $71.3 billion. The transaction was the largest in Disney's history and brought under Disney's control such properties as 20th Century Fox's film studio, the [[FX Networks|FX]] cable channels, [[National Geographic Partners]], and Fox's stake in [[Hulu]], as well as international assets including [[Star India]].


==== International Theme Park Expansion ====
==== Theme Park Expansion ====


Under Iger's leadership, Disney expanded its theme park presence in East Asia. [[Hong Kong Disneyland Resort]] opened in 2005, the same year Iger became CEO.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert A. Iger — Executive Chairman |url=https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/leaders/robert-a-iger/ |publisher=The Walt Disney Company |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> More significantly, Iger led the development and opening of [[Shanghai Disney Resort]] in mainland China, which opened in June 2016 after years of negotiations with the Chinese government and a construction investment of approximately $5.5 billion.<ref>{{cite news |date=2016-03-08 |title=Star Wars, Shanghai Disney: Bob Iger's Transformation of Disney |url=http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-star-wars-shanghai-disney-20160308-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The Shanghai resort represented Disney's largest international investment and was seen as a critical step in expanding the company's reach into the world's most populous country.
Under Iger's leadership, Disney expanded its theme park operations into East Asia. [[Hong Kong Disneyland Resort]] opened in 2005, and [[Shanghai Disney Resort]] opened in June 2016. The Shanghai park, in particular, represented a major strategic investment, as it gave Disney a significant physical presence in the Chinese market.<ref>{{cite news |date=2016-03-08 |title=Star Wars, Shanghai Disney |url=http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-star-wars-shanghai-disney-20160308-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The development of Shanghai Disney Resort was a yearslong undertaking that involved complex negotiations with the Chinese government and represented one of the largest foreign investments in the country's entertainment sector.


==== Launch of Disney+ and Streaming Strategy ====
==== Streaming and Direct-to-Consumer ====


In the latter years of Iger's first tenure as CEO, Disney made a major strategic pivot toward direct-to-consumer streaming services. The company launched [[Disney+]] in November 2019, entering a market dominated by [[Netflix]] and other incumbents. Disney+ offered a library of content drawn from Disney's various brands, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. The service attracted tens of millions of subscribers in its first months of operation. Disney also took operational control of [[Hulu]] following the Fox acquisition, making it a key component of the company's streaming portfolio.
In the latter years of his first tenure, Iger prioritized the development of Disney's direct-to-consumer streaming businesses. In November 2019, Disney launched [[Disney+]], a subscription-based streaming service that became one of the fastest-growing streaming platforms in history. Disney also increased its ownership stake in [[Hulu]] following the 21st Century Fox acquisition. The company's pivot to streaming reflected Iger's recognition that the media landscape was shifting away from traditional cable television distribution.


==== Contract Extensions and Succession Challenges ====
==== Contract Extensions ====


Iger's contract as CEO was extended multiple times during his first tenure. In 2014, Disney extended his contract through June 2018.<ref>{{cite news |date=2014 |title=Disney Extends Bob Iger Contract Through 2018 |url=https://variety.com/2014/biz/news/disney-extends-bob-iger-contract-through-2018-1201319561/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2014-10-02 |title=Disney Extends Bob Iger's Contract Until 2018 |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/disney-extends-bob-igers-contract-until-2018-1412273135 |work=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The question of CEO succession became a recurring subject of industry discussion throughout his tenure.<ref>{{cite news |title=Disney's Dilemma: Can Bob Iger Ever Find a Successor? |url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/disneys-dilemma-can-bob-iger-ever-find-a-successor-989599 |work=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> Iger was further extended in his role on multiple occasions, with the company citing the importance of continuity and the complexity of ongoing strategic initiatives. He eventually stepped down as CEO on February 25, 2020, at which point [[Bob Chapek]], then head of Disney's parks, experiences, and products division, was named as his successor.
Iger's contract as CEO was extended multiple times during his initial tenure. In October 2014, Disney extended his contract through June 2018.<ref>{{cite news |date=2014-10-02 |title=Disney Extends Bob Iger's Contract Until 2018 |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/disney-extends-bob-igers-contract-until-2018-1412273135 |work=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2014-10-02 |title=Disney Extends Bob Iger Contract Through 2018 |url=https://variety.com/2014/biz/news/disney-extends-bob-iger-contract-through-2018-1201319561/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> Subsequent extensions kept him in the role through 2020, as the Disney board sought to retain his leadership while conducting a succession search. The question of who would succeed Iger became a recurring topic in the entertainment industry and business press.<ref>{{cite news |title=Disney's Dilemma: Can Bob Iger Ever Find a Successor? |url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/disneys-dilemma-can-bob-iger-ever-find-a-successor-989599 |work=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


=== Executive Chairman and Retirement (2020–2021) ===
=== Executive Chairman and Retirement (2020–2021) ===


After stepping down as CEO in February 2020, Iger remained with Disney as executive chairman, a role in which he was tasked with overseeing creative direction and guiding the company during the transition to new leadership.<ref>{{cite web |title=Robert A. Iger — Executive Chairman |url=https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/leaders/robert-a-iger/ |publisher=The Walt Disney Company |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> His tenure as executive chairman coincided with the onset of the [[COVID-19 pandemic]], which severely disrupted Disney's theme park, cruise line, and theatrical film businesses. Iger formally retired from Disney on December 31, 2021.
In February 2020, Iger stepped down as CEO and was succeeded by [[Bob Chapek]], who had previously served as chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. Iger remained with the company as executive chairman, a role in which he continued to oversee the company's creative direction. His formal retirement from The Walt Disney Company took effect on December 31, 2021.


=== Return as CEO (2022–2026) ===
=== Return as CEO (2022–2026) ===


On November 20, 2022, Disney's board of directors dismissed Bob Chapek as CEO and asked Iger to return to lead the company. The board cited the need for experienced leadership during a period of financial and operational challenges, including significant losses in the streaming business and a decline in the company's stock price.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-03 |title=Disney names parks boss Josh D'Amaro as new CEO to replace Bob Iger |url=https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/03/media/disney-new-ceo-josh-damaro-bob-iger |work=CNN |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
On November 20, 2022, Disney's board of directors dismissed Bob Chapek as CEO and asked Iger to return to the role. Chapek's tenure had been marked by internal tensions, declining employee morale, and public controversies, including a dispute with the state of Florida over the company's response to the [[Parental Rights in Education Act]]. Iger agreed to return, initially on a two-year contract.


Upon his return, Iger implemented a corporate restructuring, announced significant cost-cutting measures, and refocused the company's strategy around profitability in its streaming operations. In July 2023, Disney renewed Iger's contract through 2026.
In July 2023, Disney renewed Iger's contract, extending it until 2026. During his second stint as CEO, Iger undertook a broad restructuring of Disney's operations, including significant cost-cutting measures, layoffs, and a renewed emphasis on profitability in the company's streaming division.


In early 2026, Iger indicated to associates that he planned to step down as CEO before his contract expired.<ref>{{cite news |title=Exclusive: Iger Has Told Associates He Plans to Leave CEO Role Before Contract Expires |url=https://www.wsj.com/business/media/iger-has-told-associates-he-plans-to-leave-ceo-role-before-contract-expires-35406a7b |work=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> On February 3, 2026, Disney announced that [[Josh D'Amaro]], who had been leading the company's parks, experiences, and products division, would succeed Iger as CEO on March 18, 2026.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-03 |title=Disney names parks boss Josh D'Amaro as new CEO to replace Bob Iger |url=https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/03/media/disney-new-ceo-josh-damaro-bob-iger |work=CNN |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The choice of D'Amaro was scrutinized by some shareholders, including activist investor [[Nelson Peltz]], who accused Iger of influencing the succession process.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02 |title=Nelson Peltz Accuses Bob Iger of Backing Josh D'Amaro as CEO to Retain Power at Disney |url=https://variety.com/2026/film/news/nelson-peltz-accuses-bob-iger-josh-damaro-disney-1236651272/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
In early 2026, reports indicated that Iger had told associates he planned to depart the CEO role before his contract expired.<ref>{{cite news |title=Iger Has Told Associates He Plans to Leave CEO Role Before Contract Expires |url=https://www.wsj.com/business/media/iger-has-told-associates-he-plans-to-leave-ceo-role-before-contract-expires-35406a7b |work=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> On February 3, 2026, Disney announced that Josh D'Amaro, the chairman of Disney Experiences, would succeed Iger as CEO on March 18, 2026.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-03 |title=Disney names parks boss Josh D'Amaro as new CEO to replace Bob Iger |url=https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/03/media/disney-new-ceo-josh-damaro-bob-iger |work=CNN |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The announcement prompted commentary from investors and media analysts about the company's future direction. Activist investor [[Nelson Peltz]] publicly accused Iger of influencing the succession plan to retain power within the company.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02 |title=Nelson Peltz Accuses Bob Iger of Backing Josh D'Amaro as CEO to Retain Power at Disney |url=https://variety.com/2026/film/news/nelson-peltz-accuses-bob-iger-josh-damaro-disney-1236651272/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


During his final weeks as CEO, Iger announced a partnership between Disney and [[OpenAI]] to integrate AI-generated video content, created with OpenAI's Sora tool, onto the Disney+ platform. Iger stated that the AI-created content would not affect Disney's other programming commitments.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02 |title=Disney's OpenAI Video Pact Will Not Affect Its Other Programming, CEO Bob Iger Says |url=https://deadline.com/2026/02/disney-openai-sora-video-bob-iger-1236705948/ |work=Deadline Hollywood |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
During his final weeks as CEO, Iger continued to oversee major strategic initiatives, including a content partnership between Disney and [[OpenAI]] involving OpenAI's video generation tool [[Sora (AI)|Sora]], under which AI-generated videos would appear on Disney+.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02 |title=Disney's OpenAI Video Pact Will Not Affect Its Other Programming, CEO Bob Iger Says |url=https://deadline.com/2026/02/disney-openai-sora-video-bob-iger-1236705948/ |work=Deadline Hollywood |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


In February 2026, Iger was reported as a potential replacement for [[Casey Wasserman]] as chair of the [[2028 Summer Olympics|LA28 Olympic Games]] organizing committee.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-23 |title=Report: Bob Iger floated as potential replacement for Casey Wasserman as LA28 chair |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2026/02/23/report-bob-iger-floated-as-potential-replacement-for-casey-wasserman-as-la28-chair/ |work=Sports Business Journal |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
As of February 2026, Iger was also reported to be under consideration as a potential replacement for Casey Wasserman as chair of the [[2028 Summer Olympics|LA28 Olympic Games]] organizing committee.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02-23 |title=Report: Bob Iger floated as potential replacement for Casey Wasserman as LA28 chair |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2026/02/23/report-bob-iger-floated-as-potential-replacement-for-casey-wasserman-as-la28-chair/ |work=Sports Business Journal |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


=== Political Activities ===
=== Political Involvement ===


In June 2017, Iger resigned from [[President of the United States|President]] [[Donald Trump]]'s business advisory council following the Trump administration's decision to withdraw the United States from the [[Paris Agreement]] on climate change.<ref>{{cite news |date=2017-06-01 |title=Disney CEO Bob Iger Resigns From Trump's Advisory Council Over Paris Accord Decision |url=https://variety.com/2017/film/news/disney-ceo-bob-iger-resigns-from-trumps-advisory-council-over-paris-accord-decision-1202451184/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> Iger had been the subject of periodic speculation about a potential run for political office, including the U.S. presidency, though he never formally entered politics as a candidate.
While Iger has generally maintained a nonpartisan public posture, he has been involved in political activities on several occasions. In 2017, he resigned from President [[Donald Trump]]'s business advisory council in response to the Trump administration's decision to withdraw the United States from the [[Paris Agreement]] on climate change.<ref>{{cite news |date=2017 |title=Disney CEO Bob Iger Resigns From Trump's Advisory Council Over Paris Accord Decision |url=https://variety.com/2017/film/news/disney-ceo-bob-iger-resigns-from-trumps-advisory-council-over-paris-accord-decision-1202451184/ |work=Variety |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> He was also reported to have hosted fundraisers for political candidates, including [[Hillary Clinton]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Hillary Clinton Fundraisers Coming to Beverly Hills |url=http://bhcourier.com/beverly-hills-news-hillary-clinton-fundraisers-coming-to-beverly-hills/ |publisher=Beverly Hills Courier |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> In 2019, Iger briefly explored the possibility of running for [[President of the United States]] before deciding against it, citing the demands of the 21st Century Fox acquisition.


== Personal Life ==
== Personal Life ==


Iger married Susan Iger in 1977; the couple divorced in 1994. They have two daughters together, including Kathleen Iger, who married Jarrod Cushing in September 2005.<ref>{{cite news |date=2005-09-25 |title=Kathleen Iger and Jarrod Cushing |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/09/25/fashion/weddings/kathleen-iger-and-jarrod-cushing.html |work=The New York Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
Iger married Susan Iger in 1977; the couple divorced in 1994. They have two daughters together, including Kathleen Iger, whose 2005 wedding was reported in ''The New York Times''.<ref>{{cite news |date=2005-09-25 |title=Kathleen Iger and Jarrod Cushing |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/09/25/fashion/weddings/kathleen-iger-and-jarrod-cushing.html |work=The New York Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


In October 1995, Iger married [[Willow Bay]], a journalist and television personality who later became dean of the [[USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism]].<ref>{{cite news |date=1995-10-08 |title=Willow Bay and Robert Iger |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/10/08/style/willow-bay-and-robert-iger.html |work=The New York Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> The couple has two sons together and resides in [[Los Angeles]], California.
In 1995, Iger married [[Willow Bay]], an American journalist, television anchor, and academic who later became the dean of the [[USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism]]. Their marriage was reported in ''The New York Times''.<ref>{{cite news |date=1995-10-08 |title=Willow Bay and Robert Iger |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/10/08/style/willow-bay-and-robert-iger.html |work=The New York Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref> Iger and Bay have two children together.


Iger is the author of ''The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned from 15 Years as CEO of the Walt Disney Company'', a memoir published in 2019 that chronicled his career and outlined his leadership principles.
Iger has maintained a residence in the Los Angeles area throughout his tenure at Disney. He is known for his early morning routine, which includes waking before dawn for exercise, a habit he has discussed publicly in interviews and in his memoir, ''The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned from 15 Years as CEO of The Walt Disney Company'', published in 2019.


== Recognition ==
== Recognition ==


During his career, Iger has received numerous awards and honors for his leadership in the media and entertainment industry. He has been recognized with an [[Emmy Award]] for his contributions to the television industry. In recognition of his role in strengthening the relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom through the entertainment industry, Iger was made an Honorary [[Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire]] (KBE).
Throughout his career, Iger has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his leadership in the media and entertainment industry. He has been the recipient of an [[Emmy Award]] and was awarded an honorary [[Commander of the Order of the British Empire]] (CBE) by the British government for his contributions to the UK entertainment industry.


Iger has appeared on numerous lists of influential business leaders. ''[[Time (magazine)|Time]]'' magazine included him in its list of the 100 most influential people in the world. He has served on various boards and advisory organizations throughout his career.
Iger has been named to ''[[Time (magazine)|Time]]'' magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in the world on multiple occasions. He has also been recognized by various industry organizations and publications, including ''[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]'', ''[[The Hollywood Reporter]]'', and ''[[Forbes]]'', for his role in shaping the modern entertainment landscape.


His record of acquisitions—Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and Fox—transformed the competitive landscape of the entertainment industry and established a model for intellectual-property-driven corporate strategy that was emulated by competitors across the media sector.
His memoir, ''The Ride of a Lifetime'', was published in September 2019 and became a bestseller. In the book, Iger outlined his management philosophy, recounted the major acquisitions that defined his tenure, and reflected on the leadership principles he developed over the course of his career.
 
Iger has served on the boards of several organizations outside of Disney, including a period of service on the board of [[Apple Inc.]], a position he held by virtue of Disney's close relationship with Steve Jobs and the Pixar acquisition. He resigned from Apple's board in September 2019 ahead of the launch of [[Apple TV+]], which competed directly with Disney+.


== Legacy ==
== Legacy ==


Iger's tenure as CEO of Disney is defined by a series of large-scale acquisitions that fundamentally reshaped the company and the broader entertainment industry. The purchases of Pixar, Marvel Entertainment, Lucasfilm, and the entertainment assets of 21st Century Fox collectively assembled what became the most extensive portfolio of commercially valuable intellectual properties in the media business. Under Iger's leadership, Disney's market capitalization grew from approximately $56 billion in 2005 to $231 billion by 2020, reflecting the financial impact of these acquisitions and the broader strategic direction he set for the company.<ref>{{cite news |date=2016-03-08 |title=Star Wars, Shanghai Disney: Bob Iger's Transformation of Disney |url=http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-star-wars-shanghai-disney-20160308-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
Iger's tenure at The Walt Disney Company is defined by the transformation of the company from a major media conglomerate into the largest entertainment company in the world by revenue and market capitalization. Under his leadership, Disney's market capitalization grew from approximately $56 billion in 2005 to roughly $231 billion by the end of his first stint as CEO in 2020.


The launch of Disney+ and the company's pivot toward direct-to-consumer streaming represented a significant strategic shift that aligned Disney with the changing patterns of media consumption. The expansion of Disney's theme park footprint into mainland China through Shanghai Disney Resort opened a new market for the company and represented one of the largest foreign direct investments in China's entertainment sector.
The acquisition strategy that Iger pursued—bringing Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox under the Disney umbrella—fundamentally altered the competitive landscape of Hollywood. By consolidating major intellectual properties within a single corporate entity, Iger created a content ecosystem that extended across film, television, streaming, theme parks, consumer products, and live entertainment. The branded approach to film distribution, in which Disney's various studios (Walt Disney Pictures, Pixar, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, and 20th Century Studios) operated as distinct labels with their own identities, became a model studied by competitors.


Iger's return to the CEO role in 2022, after less than a year of formal retirement, was an unusual event in corporate America and underscored the board's assessment of his importance to the company's direction. His second tenure focused on financial discipline, organizational restructuring, and the resolution of the succession question that had long been a subject of discussion among investors and industry observers.<ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02 |title=Bob Iger once fought to keep control at Disney. This time, he's stepping aside early. |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/why-bob-iger-stepped-down-early-josh-damaro-disney-ceo-2026-2 |work=Business Insider |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>
His expansion of Disney's theme park operations into China through Shanghai Disney Resort represented a significant milestone in the globalization of the Disney brand. The park became one of the most visited theme parks in the world within its first years of operation.


The question of Iger's long-term legacy is closely linked to the performance of Disney under his successors and the sustainability of the strategic investments made during his tenure. The company he shaped—built on branded intellectual properties, international theme parks, and a streaming platform—remains at the center of the global entertainment industry.
The launch of Disney+ in 2019 positioned Disney as a major player in the streaming wars, challenging established platforms such as [[Netflix]]. The service accumulated tens of millions of subscribers within months of its launch and became a central pillar of Disney's long-term business strategy.
 
Iger's return to Disney in 2022, after a brief retirement, underscored the degree to which his leadership was viewed as essential to the company's stability and strategic direction. His second tenure focused on restructuring, cost discipline, and preparing the company for a leadership transition. With his departure scheduled for March 2026, the question of how Disney will perform without Iger at the helm remains a subject of significant interest among investors, industry analysts, and entertainment observers.<ref>{{cite web |title=Disney Braces for Major Turmoil as New CEO Steps Into the Spotlight |url=https://insidethemagic.net/2026/02/disney-braces-for-major-turmoil-as-new-ceo-steps-into-the-spotlight-sb1/ |publisher=Inside the Magic |date=2026-02 |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2026-02 |title=Bob Iger once fought to keep control at Disney. This time, he's stepping aside early. |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/why-bob-iger-stepped-down-early-josh-damaro-disney-ceo-2026-2 |work=Business Insider |access-date=2026-02-23}}</ref>


== References ==
== References ==
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[[Category:The Walt Disney Company executives]]
[[Category:American Broadcasting Company]]
[[Category:American Broadcasting Company]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:Ithaca College alumni]]
[[Category:Ithaca College alumni]]
[[Category:American media executives]]
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[[Category:People from New York City]]
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Revision as of 00:41, 24 February 2026

Bob Iger
BornRobert Alan Iger
10 2, 1951
BirthplaceNew York City, New York, U.S.
NationalityAmerican
OccupationMedia executive
TitleChief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company
EmployerThe Walt Disney Company
Known forCEO of The Walt Disney Company
EducationIthaca College (B.S.)
Spouse(s)Template:Plainlist
AwardsTemplate:Plainlist
Website[[thewaltdisneycompany.com/leaders/robert-a-iger/ thewaltdisneycompany.com/leaders/robert-a-iger/] Official site]

Robert Alan Iger (born February 10, 1951) is an American media executive who serves as the chief executive officer (CEO) of The Walt Disney Company. Over the course of a career spanning more than five decades in the American media industry, Iger rose from an entry-level position at ABC to become one of the most consequential leaders in the history of the entertainment business. During his initial tenure as Disney's CEO from 2005 to 2020, Iger oversaw the acquisitions of Pixar, Marvel Entertainment, Lucasfilm, and the entertainment assets of 21st Century Fox, transforming Disney into the world's largest media conglomerate. He expanded the company's theme park presence into East Asia and guided the launch of the Disney+ streaming service. After a brief retirement, Iger returned to the CEO role in November 2022 following the dismissal of his successor, Bob Chapek. In February 2026, Disney announced that Iger would be succeeded as CEO by Josh D'Amaro on March 18, 2026, concluding one of the longest and most transformative leadership tenures in modern corporate history.[1]

Early Life

Robert Alan Iger was born on February 10, 1951, in New York City, New York.[2] He grew up on Long Island, where he was raised in a middle-class household. His father, Arthur L. Iger, worked as an advertising executive and later as a college professor, while his mother was a homemaker. Iger has spoken publicly about his father's struggles with depression and bipolar disorder, experiences that shaped his own outlook and resilience.

Iger developed an interest in media and communications from a young age. He attended local schools on Long Island before pursuing higher education at Ithaca College in Ithaca, New York, where he studied television and radio. His early experiences in the media environment of New York City and his academic training would lay the groundwork for what became a career defined by leadership within the American broadcasting and entertainment industries.[3]

Education

Iger enrolled at Ithaca College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in television and radio from the Roy H. Park School of Communications. During his time at Ithaca, he gained early exposure to the technical and creative elements of broadcast production. He graduated from Ithaca College in 1973.[4] His undergraduate training in broadcasting provided a practical foundation for his entry into the television industry, where he would begin his career shortly after graduation.

Career

Early Career at ABC

Following his graduation from Ithaca College, Iger began his career in television at ABC, starting in a lower-level position. He spent nearly two decades working his way up through the ranks of the network during a period of significant change in the American broadcasting landscape. In the late 1980s, Iger's leadership capabilities drew increasing attention within ABC's corporate structure. In March 1989, he was named president of ABC Entertainment, a major milestone in his ascent within the company.[5]

In 1993, Iger was promoted within ABC's restructured divisional hierarchy, taking on broader responsibilities across the network's operations.[6] By 1994, he had risen to the position of president of the American Broadcasting Company, overseeing the network's programming, news, and business operations. His tenure at ABC was marked by the strengthening of the network's prime-time lineup and its sports programming, including oversight of Monday Night Football and ABC's coverage of major sporting events.

Capital Cities/ABC and the Disney Acquisition

In 1995, Iger was named president and chief operating officer (COO) of Capital Cities/ABC, the parent company of ABC at the time. He served in this capacity during a pivotal period for the company, as Capital Cities/ABC became the target of a major acquisition by The Walt Disney Company. The merger, completed in 1996, brought ABC under the Disney corporate umbrella and marked a turning point both for Disney and for Iger's career. As a senior executive in the combined entity, Iger became one of the most influential figures within Disney's media empire.[7]

President of The Walt Disney Company

In January 2000, Iger was named president of The Walt Disney Company by then-CEO Michael Eisner, making him the second-highest-ranking executive in the corporation.[8] In this role, Iger oversaw Disney's day-to-day operations and served as Eisner's chief deputy during a turbulent period for the company, which included boardroom disputes, a contentious proxy fight led by Roy E. Disney, and public criticism of Eisner's management.

Iger emerged as the leading internal candidate to succeed Eisner, despite initial skepticism from some board members and investors who favored an external hire. His steady management style and deep knowledge of Disney's operations ultimately won him the position.

CEO of Disney: First Tenure (2005–2020)

Iger succeeded Michael Eisner as CEO of The Walt Disney Company on October 1, 2005.[9][10] His appointment marked the beginning of a fifteen-year period during which Disney's market capitalization increased from approximately $56 billion to $231 billion.

Acquisition Strategy

The defining feature of Iger's first tenure was a series of transformative acquisitions that reshaped the entertainment industry:

  • Pixar (2006): In January 2006, Disney announced the acquisition of Pixar Animation Studios for approximately $7.4 billion in an all-stock deal. The purchase brought acclaimed director John Lasseter and Pixar's creative leadership into Disney, and is credited with revitalizing Walt Disney Animation Studios. The acquisition also brought Steve Jobs, Pixar's majority shareholder, onto the Disney board of directors.
  • 21st Century Fox (2019): In March 2019, Disney completed its acquisition of the entertainment assets of 21st Century Fox for approximately $71.3 billion. The transaction was the largest in Disney's history and brought under Disney's control such properties as 20th Century Fox's film studio, the FX cable channels, National Geographic Partners, and Fox's stake in Hulu, as well as international assets including Star India.

Theme Park Expansion

Under Iger's leadership, Disney expanded its theme park operations into East Asia. Hong Kong Disneyland Resort opened in 2005, and Shanghai Disney Resort opened in June 2016. The Shanghai park, in particular, represented a major strategic investment, as it gave Disney a significant physical presence in the Chinese market.[12] The development of Shanghai Disney Resort was a yearslong undertaking that involved complex negotiations with the Chinese government and represented one of the largest foreign investments in the country's entertainment sector.

Streaming and Direct-to-Consumer

In the latter years of his first tenure, Iger prioritized the development of Disney's direct-to-consumer streaming businesses. In November 2019, Disney launched Disney+, a subscription-based streaming service that became one of the fastest-growing streaming platforms in history. Disney also increased its ownership stake in Hulu following the 21st Century Fox acquisition. The company's pivot to streaming reflected Iger's recognition that the media landscape was shifting away from traditional cable television distribution.

Contract Extensions

Iger's contract as CEO was extended multiple times during his initial tenure. In October 2014, Disney extended his contract through June 2018.[13][14] Subsequent extensions kept him in the role through 2020, as the Disney board sought to retain his leadership while conducting a succession search. The question of who would succeed Iger became a recurring topic in the entertainment industry and business press.[15]

Executive Chairman and Retirement (2020–2021)

In February 2020, Iger stepped down as CEO and was succeeded by Bob Chapek, who had previously served as chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. Iger remained with the company as executive chairman, a role in which he continued to oversee the company's creative direction. His formal retirement from The Walt Disney Company took effect on December 31, 2021.

Return as CEO (2022–2026)

On November 20, 2022, Disney's board of directors dismissed Bob Chapek as CEO and asked Iger to return to the role. Chapek's tenure had been marked by internal tensions, declining employee morale, and public controversies, including a dispute with the state of Florida over the company's response to the Parental Rights in Education Act. Iger agreed to return, initially on a two-year contract.

In July 2023, Disney renewed Iger's contract, extending it until 2026. During his second stint as CEO, Iger undertook a broad restructuring of Disney's operations, including significant cost-cutting measures, layoffs, and a renewed emphasis on profitability in the company's streaming division.

In early 2026, reports indicated that Iger had told associates he planned to depart the CEO role before his contract expired.[16] On February 3, 2026, Disney announced that Josh D'Amaro, the chairman of Disney Experiences, would succeed Iger as CEO on March 18, 2026.[17] The announcement prompted commentary from investors and media analysts about the company's future direction. Activist investor Nelson Peltz publicly accused Iger of influencing the succession plan to retain power within the company.[18]

During his final weeks as CEO, Iger continued to oversee major strategic initiatives, including a content partnership between Disney and OpenAI involving OpenAI's video generation tool Sora, under which AI-generated videos would appear on Disney+.[19]

As of February 2026, Iger was also reported to be under consideration as a potential replacement for Casey Wasserman as chair of the LA28 Olympic Games organizing committee.[20]

Political Involvement

While Iger has generally maintained a nonpartisan public posture, he has been involved in political activities on several occasions. In 2017, he resigned from President Donald Trump's business advisory council in response to the Trump administration's decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement on climate change.[21] He was also reported to have hosted fundraisers for political candidates, including Hillary Clinton.[22] In 2019, Iger briefly explored the possibility of running for President of the United States before deciding against it, citing the demands of the 21st Century Fox acquisition.

Personal Life

Iger married Susan Iger in 1977; the couple divorced in 1994. They have two daughters together, including Kathleen Iger, whose 2005 wedding was reported in The New York Times.[23]

In 1995, Iger married Willow Bay, an American journalist, television anchor, and academic who later became the dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. Their marriage was reported in The New York Times.[24] Iger and Bay have two children together.

Iger has maintained a residence in the Los Angeles area throughout his tenure at Disney. He is known for his early morning routine, which includes waking before dawn for exercise, a habit he has discussed publicly in interviews and in his memoir, The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned from 15 Years as CEO of The Walt Disney Company, published in 2019.

Recognition

Throughout his career, Iger has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his leadership in the media and entertainment industry. He has been the recipient of an Emmy Award and was awarded an honorary Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by the British government for his contributions to the UK entertainment industry.

Iger has been named to Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in the world on multiple occasions. He has also been recognized by various industry organizations and publications, including Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, and Forbes, for his role in shaping the modern entertainment landscape.

His memoir, The Ride of a Lifetime, was published in September 2019 and became a bestseller. In the book, Iger outlined his management philosophy, recounted the major acquisitions that defined his tenure, and reflected on the leadership principles he developed over the course of his career.

Iger has served on the boards of several organizations outside of Disney, including a period of service on the board of Apple Inc., a position he held by virtue of Disney's close relationship with Steve Jobs and the Pixar acquisition. He resigned from Apple's board in September 2019 ahead of the launch of Apple TV+, which competed directly with Disney+.

Legacy

Iger's tenure at The Walt Disney Company is defined by the transformation of the company from a major media conglomerate into the largest entertainment company in the world by revenue and market capitalization. Under his leadership, Disney's market capitalization grew from approximately $56 billion in 2005 to roughly $231 billion by the end of his first stint as CEO in 2020.

The acquisition strategy that Iger pursued—bringing Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox under the Disney umbrella—fundamentally altered the competitive landscape of Hollywood. By consolidating major intellectual properties within a single corporate entity, Iger created a content ecosystem that extended across film, television, streaming, theme parks, consumer products, and live entertainment. The branded approach to film distribution, in which Disney's various studios (Walt Disney Pictures, Pixar, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, and 20th Century Studios) operated as distinct labels with their own identities, became a model studied by competitors.

His expansion of Disney's theme park operations into China through Shanghai Disney Resort represented a significant milestone in the globalization of the Disney brand. The park became one of the most visited theme parks in the world within its first years of operation.

The launch of Disney+ in 2019 positioned Disney as a major player in the streaming wars, challenging established platforms such as Netflix. The service accumulated tens of millions of subscribers within months of its launch and became a central pillar of Disney's long-term business strategy.

Iger's return to Disney in 2022, after a brief retirement, underscored the degree to which his leadership was viewed as essential to the company's stability and strategic direction. His second tenure focused on restructuring, cost discipline, and preparing the company for a leadership transition. With his departure scheduled for March 2026, the question of how Disney will perform without Iger at the helm remains a subject of significant interest among investors, industry analysts, and entertainment observers.[25][26]

References

  1. ↑ "Disney names parks boss Josh D'Amaro as new CEO to replace Bob Iger".CNN.2026-02-03.https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/03/media/disney-new-ceo-josh-damaro-bob-iger.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  2. ↑ "Robert A. Iger".The Walt Disney Company.https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/leaders/robert-a-iger/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  3. ↑ "Robert Iger 1951– Biography".Reference for Business.http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/biography/F-L/Iger-Robert-1951.html.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  4. ↑ "Robert Iger 1951– Biography".Reference for Business.http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/biography/F-L/Iger-Robert-1951.html.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  5. ↑ "ABC Names Its President of Entertainment".The New York Times.1989-03-24.https://www.nytimes.com/1989/03/24/arts/abc-names-its-president-of-entertainment.html.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  6. ↑ "ABC Ups Iger, Regroups Divisions".Variety.1993.https://variety.com/1993/scene/news/abc-ups-iger-regroups-divisions-108981/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  7. ↑ "Robert Iger 1951– Biography".Reference for Business.http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/biography/F-L/Iger-Robert-1951.html.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  8. ↑ "Iger Tapped No. 2 as Mouse TV Booms".Variety.2000-01-25.https://variety.com/2000/biz/news/iger-tapped-no-2-as-mouse-tv-booms-1117765636/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  9. ↑ "Eisner to Step Down a Year Early at Disney".The Washington Post.2005-03-14.https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A32493-2005Mar13.html.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  10. ↑ "The incumbent".The Economist.2005.http://www.economist.com/displaystory.cfm?story_id=5442077.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  11. ↑ "How Disney Bought Lucasfilm—and Its Plans for 'Star Wars'".Bloomberg Businessweek.2013-03-07.https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2013-03-07/how-disney-bought-lucasfilm-and-its-plans-for-star-wars.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  12. ↑ "Star Wars, Shanghai Disney".Los Angeles Times.2016-03-08.http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-star-wars-shanghai-disney-20160308-story.html.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  13. ↑ "Disney Extends Bob Iger's Contract Until 2018".The Wall Street Journal.2014-10-02.https://www.wsj.com/articles/disney-extends-bob-igers-contract-until-2018-1412273135.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  14. ↑ "Disney Extends Bob Iger Contract Through 2018".Variety.2014-10-02.https://variety.com/2014/biz/news/disney-extends-bob-iger-contract-through-2018-1201319561/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  15. ↑ "Disney's Dilemma: Can Bob Iger Ever Find a Successor?".The Hollywood Reporter.http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/disneys-dilemma-can-bob-iger-ever-find-a-successor-989599.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  16. ↑ "Iger Has Told Associates He Plans to Leave CEO Role Before Contract Expires".The Wall Street Journal.https://www.wsj.com/business/media/iger-has-told-associates-he-plans-to-leave-ceo-role-before-contract-expires-35406a7b.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  17. ↑ "Disney names parks boss Josh D'Amaro as new CEO to replace Bob Iger".CNN.2026-02-03.https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/03/media/disney-new-ceo-josh-damaro-bob-iger.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  18. ↑ "Nelson Peltz Accuses Bob Iger of Backing Josh D'Amaro as CEO to Retain Power at Disney".Variety.2026-02.https://variety.com/2026/film/news/nelson-peltz-accuses-bob-iger-josh-damaro-disney-1236651272/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  19. ↑ "Disney's OpenAI Video Pact Will Not Affect Its Other Programming, CEO Bob Iger Says".Deadline Hollywood.2026-02.https://deadline.com/2026/02/disney-openai-sora-video-bob-iger-1236705948/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  20. ↑ "Report: Bob Iger floated as potential replacement for Casey Wasserman as LA28 chair".Sports Business Journal.2026-02-23.https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2026/02/23/report-bob-iger-floated-as-potential-replacement-for-casey-wasserman-as-la28-chair/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  21. ↑ "Disney CEO Bob Iger Resigns From Trump's Advisory Council Over Paris Accord Decision".Variety.2017.https://variety.com/2017/film/news/disney-ceo-bob-iger-resigns-from-trumps-advisory-council-over-paris-accord-decision-1202451184/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  22. ↑ "Hillary Clinton Fundraisers Coming to Beverly Hills".Beverly Hills Courier.http://bhcourier.com/beverly-hills-news-hillary-clinton-fundraisers-coming-to-beverly-hills/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  23. ↑ "Kathleen Iger and Jarrod Cushing".The New York Times.2005-09-25.https://www.nytimes.com/2005/09/25/fashion/weddings/kathleen-iger-and-jarrod-cushing.html.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  24. ↑ "Willow Bay and Robert Iger".The New York Times.1995-10-08.https://www.nytimes.com/1995/10/08/style/willow-bay-and-robert-iger.html.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  25. ↑ "Disney Braces for Major Turmoil as New CEO Steps Into the Spotlight".Inside the Magic.2026-02.https://insidethemagic.net/2026/02/disney-braces-for-major-turmoil-as-new-ceo-steps-into-the-spotlight-sb1/.Retrieved 2026-02-23.
  26. ↑ "Bob Iger once fought to keep control at Disney. This time, he's stepping aside early.".Business Insider.2026-02.https://www.businessinsider.com/why-bob-iger-stepped-down-early-josh-damaro-disney-ceo-2026-2.Retrieved 2026-02-23.

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