Disney Chief Bob Iger Aims to Revitalize Marvel Studios’ Creativity Amid Box Office Fails

Disney CEO Bob Iger highlighted on Wednesday the company’s focus on revitalizing Marvel Studios’ creative vigor. Known for blockbuster successes, Marvel has faced recent box office setbacks.

“Quality requires attention for excellence; it’s not a coincidence,” Iger stated. He expressed his top priority as assisting Marvel in a creative turnaround. During a discussion at The New York Times’ DealBook summit, Iger admitted Disney’s role in diminishing Marvel’s film quality.

Acknowledging Disney’s surplus of poorly received sequels, Iger emphasized the need for substantive reasons behind creating sequels, beyond commercial motives. Despite ongoing franchise work, Disney will greenlight sequels only deemed “worth telling.”

Iger attributed franchise film quality decline to the pandemic’s lack of executive oversight. He cited “The Marvels” as an example, debuting with Marvel’s lowest box office opening.

Iger also noted industry shifts and audience preferences, emphasizing quicker transitions from theatrical release to streaming platforms.

Regarding successor Bob Chapek, Iger expressed disappointment in Chapek’s performance, calling the transition a “mistake” and refuting claims of seeking to return to Disney’s helm.

Disney’s board changes included James Gorman and Jeremy Darroch as new directors. Reflecting on his tenure, Iger confirmed his intent to depart Disney in 2026 when his contract ends, highlighting the ongoing search for his replacement.