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Disney Ex-CEOs: From Allies to Adversaries
8 Oct
Summary
- Former Disney leaders Bob Iger and Bob Chapek were once close friends and allies.
- Chapek alleges Iger and Disney acted 'vindictively' after his 2022 ouster.
- Chapek's new memoir aims to clarify his controversial tenure as CEO.
Bob Chapek, former CEO of Disney, has revealed the deep rift that developed between himself and his predecessor, Bob Iger. The two men, once considered close friends and allies, have not spoken since Iger returned to the company in 2022 and ousted Chapek from the CEO position. This dramatic fallout occurred despite Chapek being Iger's handpicked successor.
Their friendship was reportedly forged through shared work, extensive travel, and social engagements, with Chapek even gifting Iger a gold coin for his sailboat. This past closeness makes Chapek's dismissal, which he describes as 'vindictive,' particularly perplexing and painful. He notes that Disney has removed his name and references from company history and parks.
Chapek, who recently appeared on a podcast to discuss his new memoir, 'Behind the Castle Walls,' aims to correct public misconceptions about his time as CEO and his departure. He suggests that repairing the relationship with Iger is unlikely, placing the onus on Iger to bridge the gap.
Since leaving Disney, Iger has invested in the Los Angeles Lakers, while Chapek has focused on his book. The contrasting paths highlight the significant and acrimonious turn their professional relationship has taken.
