Robert Alan Iger is a key figure in the entertainment industry, known for his leadership of The Walt Disney Company. Under his guidance, Disney made major acquisitions like Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox, while expanding globally with new theme parks and launching Disney+ and Hulu. Iger’s strategic vision led to Disney’s remarkable growth, cementing his legacy as a transformative media executive.

Early Life and Education

Robert Alan Iger was born in New York City to a Jewish family. He is the eldest son of Miriam (née Tunick) and Arthur L. Iger, a World War II Navy veteran and executive vice president of Greenvale Marketing Corporation. Iger’s mother was a school teacher. He grew up in Oceanside, New York, and graduated from Oceanside High School in 1969.

Iger went on to graduate magna cum laude in 1973 from the School of Communications at Ithaca College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Television and Radio.

Early Career

Iger’s career in media began in 1972 when he hosted Campus Probe, a television show at Ithaca College. He initially aspired to be a news anchor, working as a weatherman in Ithaca for five months before realizing his career goals needed to shift. He joined the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) in 1974, starting with menial labor and working his way up. By 1989, he was named head of ABC Entertainment, overseeing major projects like Twin Peaks and America’s Funniest Home Videos.

Career at ABC and Capital Cities/ABC

Iger’s rise within ABC was rapid. In 1994, he was named President and Chief Operating Officer of Capital Cities/ABC, which was acquired by The Walt Disney Company in 1996. Following the acquisition, Iger stayed on as Chairman of ABC until 1999. During this time, he earned a reputation as a skilled executive, overseeing ABC’s international operations and helping to guide the company through important transitions.

The Walt Disney Company

• 1995: Iger’s association with Disney began when Capital Cities/ABC was acquired by The Walt Disney Company.
• 1999: Iger became President of Walt Disney International.
• 2000: Iger was named President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Disney under CEO Michael Eisner.
• 2005: Iger succeeded Michael Eisner as CEO of Disney.

Key Decisions Under Iger’s Leadership:

• 2006: Acquisition of Pixar for $7.4 billion, marking a major expansion of Disney’s animation capabilities.
• 2009: Acquisition of Marvel Entertainment for $4 billion, bringing iconic properties like Spider-Man, Iron Man, and The Avengers under Disney’s umbrella.
• 2012: Acquisition of Lucasfilm for $4 billion, acquiring the Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises.
• 2019: Acquisition of 21st Century Fox’s entertainment assets for $71.3 billion, greatly expanding Disney’s content library.

Expanding Disney’s Global Reach:

• 2005: Opening of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, marking Disney’s expansion into East Asia.
• 2016: Opening of Shanghai Disney Resort, further strengthening Disney’s presence in international markets.

Financial Growth and Innovations:

• Increased Disney’s market capitalization from $56 billion to $231 billion.
• Led the launch of Disney+ and Hulu, positioning Disney as a leader in streaming.
• Revitalized Walt Disney Animation Studios, producing hit films and expanding the studio’s influence.

Leadership Transitions:

• Iger’s original CEO contract was set to end in 2018, but was extended multiple times.
• In 2020, Iger announced his retirement but remained as Executive Chairman to assist with the transition to his successor, Bob Chapek.
• November 2022: Iger returned as CEO after Chapek’s dismissal, following the request of Disney’s board.
• 2023: Iger’s contract was extended through 2026, continuing his leadership role at Disney.

Personal Life

Iger has been married twice. His first marriage to Kathleen Susan Iger ended in divorce, and they have two daughters. In 1995, Iger married journalist Willow Bay in a mixed Jewish and Roman Catholic ceremony. They reside in California.

Iger is known for his political centrist views, previously identifying with the Democratic Party, though he registered as an independent in 2016. He has been involved in various political fundraisers, including co-chairing a fundraiser for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 campaign.

Business Ventures and Other Roles

Iger has served on several corporate boards throughout his career, including Apple Inc., where he was instrumental in making Steve Jobs Disney’s largest shareholder after the Pixar acquisition. In 2019, he resigned from the Apple board to avoid a conflict of interest as Disney and Apple were about to launch competing streaming services.

In addition, Iger has been involved with startups, including the dairy-replacement company Perfect Day, and the digital avatar company Genies, Inc.

In July 2024, Iger and his wife, Willow Bay, invested in the National Women’s Soccer League’s Angel City FC, taking a majority stake in the team.

Politics and Public Life

Iger has considered running for political office, including a presidential bid, though he ultimately decided against it. He was part of President Trump’s Strategic and Policy Forum, resigning after Trump withdrew from the Paris Climate Agreement.

Awards and Recognition

Iger has received numerous accolades during his career. In 2019, he was named Time magazine’s Businessperson of the Year. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2020. In 2022, Iger was appointed an Honorary Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to US-UK relations.

Estimated Net Worth

As of 2024, Robert Iger’s net worth is estimated to be over $700 million.

Legacy

Iger is regarded as one of the most effective and visionary executives in the media industry. His leadership has reshaped The Walt Disney Company, making it one of the most influential entertainment giants in the world, while securing his place as a transformative figure in the media and entertainment landscape.