Balanced News: Disney’s wildest ride: Iger, Chapek and the making of an epic succession mess

Bob Iger announced his retirement as Disney’s CEO on February 25, 2020, and appointed Bob Chapek as his successor. However, Iger remained as executive chairman for 22 months and retained control over creative endeavors. Chapek moved into a smaller office and didn’t need the private shower in Iger’s office. In November 2022, Iger returned as CEO after Chapek was fired. Chapek’s tenure was described as “about three years of hell” due to his fear that Iger wanted his job back. Iger admitted that his relationship with Chapek followed a similar pattern to his previous experience with Michael Ovitz. The article questions whether Disney has learned from this dysfunctional succession.