The Magic of Disney: Bob Iger’s Legacy at the Entertainment Giant
The world of entertainment is a competitive one and few have been able to build an empire like Bob Iger has with The Walt Disney Company. He became The Walt Disney Company’s CEO on October 1, 2005, and has since taken the company to new heights and helped bring Disney magic to countless lives. Iger truly changed the “happiest place on earth.” From the acquisition of Pixar and Marvel to the launch of the Disney+ streaming service, Bob Iger created a legacy of Disney magic.
Who is Bob Iger?
Bob Iger is an American businessman and current Executive Chairman of The Walt Disney Company since February 25, 2020, following his retirement as chief executive officer in February 2020. Prior to becoming CEO at Disney, Iger joined ABC as an entry-level cable television executive in 1974. He went on to hold various executive positions until 1996 when he was named president of the Disney-owned ABC Network TV Group. After Disney acquired Capital Cities/ABC, Iger moved up the ranks until being named the CEO of The Walt Disney Company in 2005.
Iger’s Vision for The Walt Disney Company
Iger’s vision since taking the helm at Disney has been to drive long-term growth and create shareholder value. His focus has been on international expansion, diversifying the company’s revenue streams and expanding consumer access to Disney’s products and services. Under Iger’s leadership, The Walt Disney Company’s market capitalization has gone from $48 billion to over $180 billion.
The Magic of Bob Iger’s Legacy at Walt Disney
Bob Iger created a legacy of Disney magic for the world’s most beloved entertainment brand. Here are just some of the many ways that Iger brought Disney magic to life:
Transforming Disneyland and Walt Disney World
Iger was instrumental in transforming the two iconic and classic Disney parks into what they are today. Bob Iger “saw the digital revolution as a tool kit capable of bringing Disney’s ‘magical’ theme park experiences to life,” as reported by the Los Angeles Times. He oversaw an extraordinary renovation at the two resorts and spent billions of dollars in creating more immersive experiences. Under Iger’s leadership, Disney continues to expand their parks and resorts with the likes of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and expansion to Shanghai Disney Resort.
Acquisition of Pixar and Marvel
In 2006, Iger orchestrated the acquisition of Pixar, which had produced such films as Toy Story, Cars, Up, and The Incredibles. Later in 2009, Iger led the acquisition of Marvel Entertainment, responsible for some of the most iconic characters and films in the world such as Iron Man, Captain America, The Incredible Hulk, and Ant-Man. Both acquisitions have allowed The Walt Disney Company to produce some of the highest grossing films of all time with blockbusters such as The Avengers and Frozen.
Launch of Disney+
In November 2019, Iger launched Disney+, The Walt Disney Company’s streaming service at the same time that he announced his retirement as CEO in 2020. Disney+ has became wildly successful, with subscribers now over 100 million. Disney+ has quickly become a powerhouse in streaming with classic to recent films and TV shows, classic animation, original content titled “Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian”, and a catalog including National Geographic and Fox.
Disney Magic Around the World
Bob Iger’s legacy at Disney goes far beyond the numerous accomplishments he has achieved as its CEO. He will be remembered for creating experiences that brought “Disney Magic” to millions of fans around the world for many generations to come. With multiple award nominations and recognitions, Bob Iger truly changed the game for The Walt Disney Company and its many subsidiaries.
Bob Iger’s legacy at The Walt Disney Company is undeniable. He was the one who led the iconic brand on a path of success and innovation. Iger was crucial in the acquisition of Pixar and Marvel as well as the launch of the highly successful Disney+ streaming service. He will forever be remembered for imprinting “Disney Magic” on the world through his vision and dedication.
