Surprise ! Disney announces the return to its head of Bob Iger, its former boss.
The latter thus succeeds Bob Chapek… who succeeded him in 2020. Explanations.
At Disney, a Bob can hide another
In 2020, after fifteen years at the head of the Disney group, Bog Iger gave way to Bob Chapek. A very complicated transfer of power, against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic (and the closure of cinemas, parks, etc.), not to mention the big dive into the world of streaming for the firm with big ears, with Disney +.
Along with a highly contested management of the group, Bob Chapek faced discontent from Disney employees earlier this year after the publication of an anti-LGBTQ+ law in Florida. The close relationship between the company and the state, particularly financial, angered employees and the CEO ended up apologizing.
The return of the Jedi by Bob Iger!
Still, this same Bob Chapek was removed from his post, and replaced by Bob Iger, who therefore resumes service at 71 years old. He accepted a two-year mission, with the objective of developing a strategy aimed at renewing the group’s growth.
Regarding the departure of Bob Chapek, the president of the board of directors of Disney explains: We thank Bob Chapek for his service to Disney over his long career, including guiding the company through unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic. “.
A replacement which comes after disappointing results revealed by Disney, the various streaming platforms showing a loss of 1.5 billion dollars. Similarly, Disney’s stock was down more than 40% at the start of the month, compared to the start of the year.
Under the tutelage of Bob Iger, Disney had become a true entertainment empire, with the acquisition of Pixar in 2006, then Marvel in 2009, without forgetting Lucasfilm three years later, and finally 21st Century Fox in 2019. Many hope that this return will allow Disney to rediscover its “magic of yesteryear”, somewhat eroded by the Chapek era.
Source : variety
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