Robert Allen Iger’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence. Despite humble beginnings, Iger rose to become one of the most successful media executives of our time, serving as the CEO of The Walt Disney Company and overseeing the acquisition of some of the most beloved franchises in entertainment history.
Path to success
Born into a Jewish family in New York City, Iger’s childhood was marked by a love of books and a desire to succeed. After graduating from the Roy H. Park School of Communications at Ithaca College, he began his media career as the host of a college television show. Iger then joined the American Broadcasting Company (ABC), where he worked tirelessly, performing menial tasks on television sets for a meager salary.
Rising media star
However, Iger’s hard work and dedication paid off when he was appointed as the head of ABC Entertainment in 1989. He was instrumental in greenlighting hit shows such as Twin Peaks and America’s Funniest Home Videos, cementing his position as a rising star in the media industry.
Catalyst
In 1995, The Walt Disney Company purchased Capital Cities/ABC, and Iger remained chairman until 1999. Disney then named him the president of Walt Disney International, overseeing the company’s international operations, and chairman of the ABC Group. Iger’s leadership skills and vision for the company were soon recognized, and he was named the CEO of The Walt Disney Company in 2005.
Acquisitions
Under Iger’s stewardship, Disney underwent a period of unprecedented growth, acquiring beloved franchises such as Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm. He oversaw the introduction of new theme parks in East Asia and reinvigorated Walt Disney Animation Studios. Additionally, Iger’s emphasis on direct-to-consumer businesses, including Disney+ and Hulu, has set the company on a path to continued success.
Throughout his career, Iger has demonstrated the power of hard work, dedication, and vision in achieving success. His story is a reminder that with perseverance and a relentless pursuit of excellence, anything is possible.