
Bob Iger, the long-standing leader of The Walt Disney Company, has been a pivotal figure in shaping Disney’s modern era. From orchestrating monumental acquisitions like Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm, to overseeing the launch of international parks in Shanghai and Hong Kong, Iger’s legacy has left an indelible mark on Disney’s history.
However, his return as CEO in 2022 has been met with mixed results, and his latest pay increase is stirring conversations among fans and industry insiders.

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A Rocky Second Term as CEO
After stepping down in 2020, Bob Chapek took over as Disney’s CEO. Chapek’s tenure was fraught with controversies, marked by decisions that alienated fans and employees alike. This led to Iger’s unexpected return in 2022.
While many celebrated his comeback, Iger’s second term hasn’t been smooth sailing. Rising ticket prices, budget cuts, and layoffs have contributed to growing frustrations among Disney enthusiasts.
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Since his return, Iger has been tasked with making Disney+ profitable, a feat he achieved in 2024 after implementing significant budget reductions and canceling several fan-favorite shows. Despite these efforts, Disney has faced declining stock performance and growing concerns about its long-term strategy.
A Paycheck Worth Talking About
Despite these challenges, Iger’s compensation package continues to grow.
According to The Wrap, Iger’s pay for 2024 exceeded $40 million, a substantial increase from his 2023 earnings of just over $31 million. The breakdown of his 2024 compensation includes:
“The 2024 pay package included a $1 million salary, $18.25 million in stock awards, $12 million in option awards, $7.22 million in non-equity incentive plan compensation, $495,142 reflecting a change in pension value and non-qualified deferred compensation earnings, and $2,145,767 in ‘other’ compensation, including $523,685 in personal air travel and $1.44 million in security costs.”
The pay bump comes amidst significant restructuring within Disney’s leadership. With Iger set to remain as CEO until 2026, the search for his successor is underway. Current contenders include Disney Entertainment co-chairs Dana Walden and Alan Bergman, Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro, and ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro. Iger is expected to announce his successor by early 2026.
Iger’s massive salary increase has sparked heated debates. While some argue his leadership has been invaluable in navigating Disney through turbulent times, others believe the pay raise is tone-deaf, given the layoffs of thousands of Disney cast members and cuts to various budgets.
The Road Ahead for Disney
As Disney faces pressure to innovate and adapt in a changing entertainment landscape, the company’s leadership decisions will be critical. From revitalizing Disney+ to addressing growing concerns among fans, Iger and his team have a monumental task ahead.
Whether Iger’s leadership will ultimately restore Disney’s former glory or exacerbate current frustrations remains to be seen.
What are your thoughts on Bob Iger’s latest pay increase? Does it reflect his value to Disney, or is it a step in the wrong direction? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
When is enough pay ? The parks are already unaffordable for the average family. Parents do into debt just to see their kids faces so happy.
Although I appreciate all of the upgrades to the American parks, ( especially Disney World as I’m a DVC member with my home there) it seems that the money should be funneled into getting these upgrades done more quickly. Everything construction wise seems to take so long. I live in the northeast & getting there is so expensive let alone all of the other costs. I don’t have my personal airfare paid for by my company. ( so we end up driving the 1000+ miles)Yes he should be compensated for the work that he’s done & continues to do but this is extreme. If Disney has that much money to dole out, why don’t they bring back the 3 free fast passes so everyone can enjoy the parks more instead of just the rich like him.
So this overrated weatherman receives a pay raise while average families are priced out of ever going to a Disney Park. It’s apparent that destroying Walt’s legacy and buying someone else’s IP is really paying off for him.
One million every year? How can he spend that much? – He isn’t going to be able to take it with him!! Let’s just hope some of that money is designated to missions, non-profit organizations, the homeless, etc.! Come on Mr. Iger – enough is enough. Share it with the people who have made you already that rich!
Way too much to pay for a salary when the average family has been priced out of going to a Disney Park. Lower the salary and pay your employees better and lower the cost to visit the parks. Disney is out pricing a “fun” day out for families. You get “nickeled and dimed” all day long and the “fun” disappears quickly! Why should I have to pay extra for LL or stand on long lines. I want the FREE ride passes back.