Robert Fitzpatrick, who oversaw the creation and first year of operations at Disneyland Paris Resort from 1987 to 1993, died at his New York home on September 30, 2024. He was 84.
Robert Fitzpatrick’s Early Years
Robert Fitzpatrick was born in 1940 in Canada and moved to the United States when he was 12. He pursued an academic career, first earning a degree in literature and then taking on a position at Johns Hopkins University, where he focused on medieval French literature. He became a renowned educator and was even elected as the youngest city councilor in Baltimore in 1972.
Fitzpatrick’s role as an academic leader expanded when he was named president of the California Institute of the Arts in 1975, a position he held for twelve years. During this time, he gained further recognition for his efforts in the arts, notably as the director of the 1984 Olympic Arts Festival.
Legacy of Robert Fitzpatrick
Robert Fitzpatrick’s impact on Disneyland Paris Resort, originally known as EuroDisney, was significant. He served as the first CEO of the European Disney park, playing a crucial role in the theme park’s conception and early development.
Fitzpatrick’s vision and leadership were vital in transforming the project from a concept to a reality, navigating the complexities of launching a major theme park in Europe. He was seen as a suave diplomat who aimed to bridge the gap between American and European expectations regarding the park, ensuring that it maintained Disney’s core values while appealing to the local market.
Fitzpatrick’s cultural contributions extended beyond operational management; he became a prominent figure in Disney history, often celebrated for his work during a pivotal time for the company’s expansion into Europe. His leadership helped set the stage for Disneyland Paris Resort’s future. It remains one of the most visited theme parks in Europe.
A Bumpy Road to Success
Despite Fitzpatrick’s credentials and commitment, the opening of EuroDisney in April 1992 did not unfold as smoothly as hoped. The first year was marked by significant challenges, including lower-than-expected visitor spending and the inability to attract the anticipated number of Disney Park guests.
Financial setbacks plagued the park early on, leading to reports of losses amounting to millions. Fitzpatrick had originally set a target of eleven million visitors in the Disneyland Paris Resort’s inaugural year, but those numbers fell short, resulting in the decision to close one of the main hotels for winter—a first in Disney Resort history.
Fitzpatrick’s departure in 1993 marked a change in management styles as Disney appointed Philippe Bourguignon, emphasizing a need for a leader with a stronger local presence. Analysts noted that his leadership transition reflected a broader strategy to align the park more closely with European expectations while addressing the organizational challenges Fitzpatrick faced.
Reaction to the Passing of Robert Fitzpatrick
Robert Fitzpatrick’s passing at 84 has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the Disney community and beyond. His wife, Sylvie Fitzgerald, shared the news of his death on Facebook.
“He lived a full and colorful life worthy of several volumes and died in peace and without pain,” she wrote. “He loved you all. Rest in peace dear Bob.”
@DLPReport, a popular Disneyland Paris Resort fan account, shared this tribute on X (formerly Twitter):
Saddened to hear about the passing of Robert Fitzpatrick, Euro Disney President from the planning stages in 1987 to the first years of operation in 1993. He oversaw the creation of the $4B European Resort: Euro Disneyland, 7 Disney Hotels, and Festival Disney.
https://twitter.com/DLPReport/status/1841195046290309604
In the comments, remember Robert Fitzpatrick’s creation by sharing your favorite Disneyland Paris Resort memories with Disney Dining.
