Former Disney CEO Bob Chapek revealed that during his tenure, he raised concerns with the company's board about then-Executive Chairman Bob Iger on a 'weekly' basis, according to statements made in his new memoir and an interview with CNBC's 'Squawk Box' [1]. Chapek, who previously led Disney's theme park and experiences division, was appointed CEO just weeks before the Covid pandemic forced the closure of movie theaters and amusement parks worldwide in 2020 [1]. While Chapek managed the company's response to these unprecedented challenges, Iger remained at Disney to oversee content initiatives such as Disney+ [1].
Chapek alleges that Iger gradually began to reassert control over the company, leading to a power struggle that was previously detailed in a 2023 CNBC report [1]. Chapek recounted hearing from multiple sources about Iger criticizing him in private meetings, which prompted Chapek to repeatedly bring his concerns to the Disney board [1]. According to Chapek, the board dismissed his worries, telling him, 'He'll be gone in two years. It's OK. That's Bob being Bob' [1].
Despite these assurances, Chapek was ousted nearly three years after becoming CEO and replaced by Iger, who returned to the role until March 2026 [1]. Chapek expressed disappointment, stating, 'It would have been great if, like other CEOs, he acted as a steward of my new role. It would have been one thing if he was neutral, but to be actually working against me, actively, I thought was just unbelievable' [1].
The revelations from Chapek's memoir and interview shed light on the internal leadership tensions at Disney during a critical period for the company, though the article does not mention specific market reactions or analyst commentary [1].
CONCLUSION
Bob Chapek's account highlights significant leadership conflict at Disney during his tenure as CEO, particularly with Bob Iger. While the memoir provides new details on the internal power struggle, the article does not discuss immediate market reactions or forward-looking analyst opinions.