Disney CEO Bob Iger is facing significant backlash following the disappointing box office performance of the live-action adaptation of “Snow White,” which has reportedly grossed around $160 million globally. This starkly contrasts with the success of Warner Bros.’ “Minecraft” movie, which amassed over $313 million in its opening weekend alone. Industry insiders are questioning the current strategies of Disney and Warner Bros., highlighting a clear divide in their respective customer bases.
Iger’s management style has come under scrutiny, with critics labeling him as incompetent and stubborn. As “Snow White” continues to struggle, Iger has taken to damage control, addressing the film’s critics in a controversial manner. He attributed the film’s shortcomings to a resistant political landscape, suggesting that opposition to changes in the classic story stemmed from a refusal to embrace diversity and inclusion.
Despite the film’s financial losses, which are estimated to be nearing $400 million when factoring in high production and marketing expenses, Iger insisted that the criticism is grounded in false narratives. He has refrained from revealing specific budget details, stating that the company will provide clarity to shareholders at a later time.
Compounding the situation is the public fallout between lead actress Rachel Zegler and her co-star Gal Gadot, which has further stalled promotional efforts for the film. Iger’s defense of the film and its creative choices has drawn ire, especially as he continues to blame external critics rather than acknowledging the film’s narrative shortcomings.
As Disney grapples with these challenges, the board of directors is reportedly losing faith in Iger’s leadership, with discussions about his tenure continuing. The future of Disney’s approach to storytelling and its commitment to diversity remains uncertain, as Iger’s response to the “Snow White” debacle raises more questions than answers.