Photo Credit: Getty Images
Disney CEO Bob Iger has received the prestigious 50-year Service Award from The Walt Disney Company, commemorating his extensive career and contributions to the entertainment industry. The award features bronze statuettes of Snow White and the seven dwarfs — Doc, Sneezy, Grumpy, Happy, Bashful, Sleepy, and Dopey — from the iconic 1937 Disney animated film. The inscription reads, “Recognizing 50 magical years with the Walt Disney Company.”
Although Iger officially joined Disney in 1995 following the company’s acquisition of Capital Cities/ABC, Inc., the award acknowledges his career beginning In 1974 at ABC as a production assistant. At the time, ABC was owned by American Broadcasting-Paramount Theatres.
In an Instagram post on Monday, Iger shared an image of the Disney Service Award, expressing his gratitude and reflection on his journey. “I started my career at ABC 50 years ago today and the business has certainly changed a lot since then! But at the end of the day, success still hinges on one thing: great storytelling. I’m proud to work alongside so many talented colleagues who create exceptional stories and experiences for the world to enjoy… truly the ride of a lifetime!” Iger wrote.
Bob Iger’s official tenure at Disney began in 1996 when he became chairman of the Disney-owned ABC Group. In 1999, he was promoted to president of Walt Disney International, and he later served as Disney’s president and COO from 2000 to 2005. His first tenure as CEO of The Walt’Disney Company started in 2005 and lasted until 2020. During this period, he led significant acquisitions that expanded Disney’s portfolio, including Pixar in 2006, Marvel in 2009, and Lucasfilm in 2012.
Following his role as CEO, Iger served as executive chairman and chairman of the board in 2021 before retiring in December of that year. However, his retirement was short-lived as he returned to Disney as CEO in November 2022 amid the company’s strategic and leadership challenges.
Iger’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping Disney into a global entertainment powerhouse. His vision and strategic acquisitions have not only broadened Disney’s creative horizons but also solidified its position in the competitive entertainment industry. As Disney continues to evolve, Iger’s emphasis on great storytelling remains a cornerstone of the company’s success.
This milestone not only celebrates Iger’s remarkable career but also underscores the lasting impact of his leadership on The Walt Disney Company and the entertainment industry at large.
