Bob Chapek expounds at length about his termination from Disney and his belief that ex-CEO Bob Iger stabbed him in the back in his forthcoming book, “Behind the Castle Walls.” Chapek, in recounting his 30-year career at the Mouse House, also offers a number of other revelations in the memoir. Variety obtained an advance copy of the book. Chapek, the one-time head of Disney’s theme parks division, assumed the Disney CEO job in February 2020 — as Iger’s hand-picked successor — right before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the U.S.
After a series of missteps, the Disney board ousted Chapek in November 2022 and called Iger back into service. Iger stepped down as CEO this March, replaced by former parks head Josh D’Amaro. Chapek recounts an exchange with Iger — who is mentioned 121 times in the book— years before the CEO changeover.
The two were talking about the role of Disney’s chief executive officer, and Chapek remarked, “No one is bigger than the company.” To Chapek’s surprise, Iger responded, “You know, that may be true of other CEOs, but I like to think that I’m a little different.” “He went on to say, it seemed to me in that moment, that he considered himself the modern reincarnation of Walt Disney. As a result, he wasn’t just the next CEO to come along. He thought he was somewhat unique and special in the history of Disney CEOs.
I was surprised, because it did not match up to the façade.” In the book’s introduction, Chapek recalls his interview with CNBC on Feb. 25, 2020, alongside Iger after Chapek’s appointment as CEO was announced. Recalling that both men “unintentionally wore basically matching outfits — black suits with white button-downs,” Chapek compares it to a scene from the movie “Twins” with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito. He didn’t appear to be a man relieved of the responsibilities of one of the world’s most influential companies.
Instead, he looked uncomfortable, perhaps even miserable. No, he looked more than that. With his arms crossed, I could see that he was angry.” Chapek maintains in the book that Iger was “the real reason” the board dismissed him.
I’d always made it clear I had big shoes to fill. But I’d never expected t endure a drawn-out, purposeful undoing of my leadership.” Continues Chapek: “This was not a happy time for Bob. Because of his own feelings about the company and his place in it, he was having an incredibly difficult time with the idea of moving on.” “My abrupt dismissal hurt my reputation, leaving those close to me, outsiders, and some within the kingdom trying to figure out what I did wrong,” says Chapek.
Extract — continue reading at the source.
