Most movie fans couldn't name the CEOs of studios if their lives depended on it, but Disney's Bob Chapek has become a reviled figure since taking over from Bob Iger.
Whether it's the controversy over not paying Black Widow star Scarlett Johansson what she was owed, Pixar movies being relegated to Disney+, or a massive hike in Disney Parks prices that's left visitors fuming, Chapek is not well-liked. That might explain why he's been ousted from the company, leading to Iger's return!
Iger is, of course, best known for being in charge during the acquisition of brands like Pixar, Marvel Entertainment and Lucasfilm, not to mention Disney's merger with 20th Century Fox. He also spearheaded groundbreaking changes to the Disney Parks, including the launch of Galaxy's Edge, Pandora, and Avengers Campus.
"I am deeply honored to be asked to again lead this remarkable team, with a clear mission focused on creative excellence to inspire generations through unrivaled, bold storytelling," Iger said, following the news. He will serve as CEO for at least the next two years, while he's also been tasked with finding a successor.
Chapek has not commented on his departure, while a brief statement welcoming Iger back to the role also made no mention of the former CEO. It's thought he and Iger had something of a rocky relationship, and while Disney is hoping Iger can get the company back on track from a financial standpoint, this hopefully means we'll see some creative improvements as well.
After all, many fans have wondered if the lack of Star Wars movies and a quantity over quality issue with MCU content is down to Chapek, so it will be interesting seeing what happens now.
Here's the full statement from Iger about his return to Disney.
Dear Fellow Employees and Cast Members,
It is with an incredible sense of gratitude and humility—and, I must admit, a bit of amazement—that I write to you this evening with the news that I am returning to The Walt Disney Company as Chief Executive Officer.
When I look at the creative success of our teams across our Studios, Disney General Entertainment, ESPN and International, the rapid growth of our streaming services, the phenomenal reimagining and rebound of our Parks, the continued great work of ABC News, and so many other achievements across our businesses, I am in awe of your accomplishments and I am excited to embark with you on many new endeavors.
I know this company has asked so much of you during the past three years, and these times certainly remain quite challenging, but as you have heard me say before, I am an optimist, and if I learned one thing from my years at Disney, it is that even in the face of uncertainty—perhaps especially in the face of uncertainty—our employees and Cast Members achieve the impossible.
You will be hearing more from me and your leaders tomorrow and in the weeks ahead. In the meantime, allow me to express my deep gratitude for all that you do. Disney holds a special place in the hearts of people around the globe thanks to you, and your dedication to this company and its mission to bring joy to people through great storytelling is an inspiration to me every single day.
Bob Iger