Recent reports indicate that Disney CEO Bob Iger has decided to bring back late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, following some sharp criticism from his former boss, Michael Eisner, whom he reportedly can’t stand.
Iger, who is known for having a “light skin” demeanor, seemingly caved in on Monday and allowed a new episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” to air. He did this without requiring the long-time host to apologize for inaccurately labeling a recent incident featuring Charlie Kirk’s assassin as linked to the “Maga Gangs.”
Iger had previously advocated for the labor movement, entertainment professionals, and liberal agendas, but Eisner’s recent comments on social media hit especially hard. According to Puck News, it was the most stinging criticism he received.
The relationship between Iger and Eisner has been strained for years, particularly since the succession battles in the mid-2000s. Eisner publicly questioned where all the leadership had gone, highlighting the ongoing tension.
Eisner accused Iger of failing to confront an “out-of-control threat” from the FCC, stating, “The constitution probably says that Parliament wouldn’t create laws that undermine freedom of the press, unless for political or financial self-interest.”
Since returning to the CEO role in late 2022, Iger has faced a polarized media landscape. Insiders suggest he has harbored resentment toward Eisner since their succession dispute.
Some believe that if Eisner were still in charge, he would have responded to Kimmel’s critics in a much different manner. For Iger, external pressures—like complaints from Sinclair and Nexstar over Kimmel’s comments—have made his decisions more complicated.
One past Disney insider remarked that Eisner doesn’t shy away from doing what he believes is right, even if it might backfire on him later.
Those familiar with the situation are surprised by Eisner’s recent social media provocations, finding his inquiries about leadership quite unusual.
Obvious tensions are surfacing within the Disney organization, as Iger’s actions have drawn ire from various creative unions and high-profile entertainers. The fallout from the suspension of Kimmel has even reached personal levels for Iger.
Iger and his wife, Willow Bay, had planned a fundraiser at their Los Angeles residence to support women in media. However, due to the recent controversies, the organizing committee contemplated pulling out, a move that reflects the significant repercussions of the situation.
The long-standing rivalry between Iger and Eisner has roots that go back to the early 2000s, a time when Disney seemed to struggle with profitability and its relationship with industry titan Pixar and the ABC network was fraught.
This period triggered a notable shareholder rebellion against Eisner, with around 43% of investors withholding support, culminating in his stepping down as chairman while remaining CEO.
Despite Eisner at one point calling Iger his “preferred choice” for succession, this only worsened public perceptions about a perceived “fake” search for leadership that seemed geared toward favoring Iger. Ultimately, Iger negotiated a compromise with Disney in 2005, effectively distancing himself from Eisner’s leadership style by redefining his partnerships with creative entities like Pixar.
