Bob Iger received an all-star tribute at the 2026 D23 Disney Legends ceremony, where the longtime entertainment executive was recognized for helping shape The Walt Disney Company’s modern era.
The 75-year-old former CEO became the first company executive formally inducted as a Disney Legend. He joined a class that included Anne Hathaway, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Dwayne Johnson, Jerry Bruckheimer and other influential figures from entertainment, animation and Imagineering.
Josh D’Amaro Honors His Disney Predecessor
Iger was introduced by Josh D’Amaro, who succeeded him as Disney CEO in March. Robert Downey Jr., Harrison Ford, Ellen Pompeo, Diane Sawyer and other prominent Disney figures also appeared onstage to reflect on Iger’s leadership and influence.
“What I’ve always admired the most about Bob is not necessarily what he’s accomplished; it is who he is,” D’Amaro said. “He leans with integrity. He leans with optimism. He treats everyone with respect, and he cares deeply about people, about Disney, and about the stories that we share in the whole world. I’ve been fortunate to get to work alongside him, and his friendship has meant more than I can say.”
Downey praised Iger’s willingness to make difficult decisions during periods of uncertainty and major change in the entertainment industry.
“Fortune favors the brave,” said Downey Jr. “To me, those four words explain Mr. Iger’s primary quality: it’s courage. It’s the bold choices in the face of incredible risk, trusting your instincts, empowering people to aspire beyond their limitations. And as he closes this chapter and begins the next, somehow, somehow, seems like he’s still just only getting started. That is, Bob, why you truly are the legend in every sense of the word.”
Iger Reflects on Receiving Disney’s Highest Honor
During his acceptance speech, Iger noted that he had previously presented the Disney Legends Award to numerous artists and industry leaders.
“Now, over the years, I’ve had the privilege of giving this award out to dozens and dozens of truly worthy people, unbelievably talented people who contributed so much to this company, and so it is an incredible honor for me to receive that same award, particularly with this unbelievable class,” Iger said.
He also offered public encouragement to his successor.
“To Josh D’Amaro, you’re wearing that title really well. I am so proud to call you my successor,” Iger said.
Former CEO Credits Disney’s Creative Talent
Iger used part of his speech to recognize the actors, producers, musicians, writers and other creative professionals responsible for Disney’s films, television programs and entertainment experiences.
“It’s not lost on me; I’m the executive in the room,” Iger said. “What executives typically do is they sign checks and they turn the lights on in the morning. I usually make coffee. But more than anything else, we’re around to support creators, the true talent that drives this company forward. Whether it’s producers like Jerry Bruckheimer, songwriters like Lin, or actors like Dwayne and Anne. I could go on and one. Singers, dancers, you name it. And so I accept this award for all of you.”
Bob Iger’s Career and Disney Legacy
Iger began his career at ABC in 1974 as a studio supervisor, commonly described as a television production runner. He advanced through the company’s leadership ranks and became president of ABC Television in 1994.
Disney acquired ABC and its parent company, Capital Cities, in 1996. Iger continued rising within the combined organization before succeeding Michael Eisner as chief executive of The Walt Disney Company in 2005.
His tenure was defined by several major acquisitions that expanded Disney’s collection of entertainment properties. Under Iger, the company purchased Pixar in 2006, Marvel Entertainment in 2009 and Lucasfilm in 2012. Those deals brought franchises including “Toy Story,” the Marvel Cinematic Universe and “Star Wars” under the Disney umbrella.
Iger’s induction into the Disney Legends program recognizes both his corporate leadership and his lasting influence on the company’s creative portfolio. The ceremony also marked a symbolic transition as D’Amaro begins leading one of the world’s most prominent entertainment companies.
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