Since Bob Iger resumed his role as CEO we’ve heard from him on a variety of matters — from Park Passes to Disney’s battles with Florida politicians.
We’ve even seen Iger comment on gun violence and other topics. So perhaps it’s no surprise that Iger has taken some time to speak again — this time via a written message about the holiday season and the future of the Disney Company.
Bob Iger has sent out a holiday message to Disney fans, specifically D23 members.
In the message, Iger noted that he wanted to reach out to express his “gratitude to the biggest Disney fans in the world – all of you.” Iger continued, “Disney is fortunate to have the most devoted and enthusiastic fans.” He shared that he was reminded of this when attending the Candlelight Processional at Disneyland Resort.
Iger said that it was “invigorating to be surrounded by so many guests who make what we do possible.” “We love your passion for our company and your enthusiasm for what we create, and we will continue to do our best to exceed your highest expectations,” he said.
He then went on to discuss Disney’s 100th Anniversary, which officially kicks off in 2023. Iger said, “We are immeasurably grateful to the generations of fans all around the globe who have invited our stories and characters into their lives, and we look forward to celebrating the groundbreaking moments, the cherished memories, and the creative visionaries that made Disney the most beloved name in entertainment over the past century.”
He noted that during the next year, D23 will be launching a variety of events to mark the 100th Anniversary. You can read more about those here.
Iger concluded by saying that there has “never been a better time to be a Disney fan.” He shared that it is a privilege to lead the company again and is grateful for people’s passion for Disney.
He closed by saying, “On behalf of all of us at The Walt Disney Company, I wish you a wonderful holiday season and a very happy and prosperous New Year.”
2023 is set to be a BIG year for Disney. Next year will bring the opening of new restaurants in Disney World, the opening of a new ride (TRON), the opening of a new attraction (Journey of Water — Inspired by Moana), the closure of Splash Mountain (ahead of its Tiana makeover), and much more.
But it may also bring some big challenges for Iger as CEO, including dropping stock values, challenges with making Disney+ profitable, and legal battles in Florida. How will Iger tackle these challenges and what significant changes may hit the Disney Company and its internal organization? Only time will tell.
Be sure to check back with us for all the latest!
You can read the message from Iger in full below:
As we approach the end of 2022, I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude to the biggest Disney fans in the world – all of you.
Disney is fortunate to have the most devoted and enthusiastic fans, and I was reminded of this a few weeks ago when I visited Disneyland Resort and attended the Candlelight Processional. It was invigorating to be surrounded by so many guests who make what we do possible. We love your passion for our company and your enthusiasm for what we create, and we will continue to do our best to exceed your highest expectations.
As you know, next year Disney will mark its 100th anniversary. We are immeasurably grateful to the generations of fans all around the globe who have invited our stories and characters into their lives, and we look forward to celebrating the groundbreaking moments, the cherished memories, and the creative visionaries that made Disney the most beloved name in entertainment over the past century.
During the coming year, D23 will launch a slate of exciting events to mark this historic milestone. More information can be found here.
Looking at all the opportunities ahead, I can honestly say there has never been a better time to be a Disney fan. It is an extraordinary privilege to lead this remarkable company again, and I am so grateful for your continued passion for Disney. On behalf of all of us at The Walt Disney Company, I wish you a wonderful holiday season and a very happy and prosperous New Year.
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What do you think will be Iger’s biggest challenge in 2023? Tell us in the comments.
Gino says
Can’t even say Merry Christmas. His 2A opposition is just another reason that my expectations of WDW going back to what Walt envisioned are very low. Company will continue to be woke until it will be too late to turn back.
AlanC says
Impossible. That train left the station years ago.
Ron says
Mr. Iger, I can only speak for my family who has been visiting Disney World since 1984. My Highest Expectations are
1. Reduce all prices to 2019 levels, when Disney was profitable
Do this by eliminating The Genie Plus and bringing back the FREE FAST PASS.
Charlotte says
I am keeping everything crossed he will actually listen to us fans and bring at least SOME of the magic back! I would do anything to have the fastpass+ system come back, because frankly this new version where you have to wake up at 7am while on vacation to pay to get a fastpass and potentially waste your money on because you’re not even guaranteed to get it is awful. Planning all these things a certain number of days in advance made it all the more exciting for me and no doubt lots of others. People do not want to walk around the parks with their heads stuck in their phones all day. The very least Iger can do is make it free, or at least give it some kind of benefit for on-site guests.