Being a Disney theme park fan over the last few years has been tricky. The extended period closure of their theme parks due to virus concerns kept Disney fans away from their theme parks. When theme parks reopened, the beloved Fastpass+ system no longer existed. That system returned in a new paid format known as Genie+. Also, some attractions have added individual cost to enter the former free Fastpass+ lane. Disney theme park fans have seen prices increase dramatically. In fairness, this rise in pricing can be seen almost everywhere in our world. Yet, Disney price increases seemed more dramatic. Add to that, a new park reservation system and annual pass drama, Disney theme park fans felt they had lots to complain about.
The main target of their complaints is Bob Chapek, Disney CEO. Many of the changes that happened under his time of leadership had been planned well before he became CEO. So many rumors developed about him getting voted out as CEO. However, as expected, The Walt Disney Company Board of Directors unanimously voted to extend Bob Chapek’s contract as Chief Executive Officer for three years.
Chapek has been with Disney for almost 30 years. He became the 7th CEO in Disney’s history just weeks before the company’s theme parks and the majority of its content production was shut down due to COVID-19. Since then, he has set Disney on a course to lead the entertainment industry well into the company’s next century, with a keen focus on storytelling excellence, innovation, and audiences.
Prior to becoming CEO, Chapek served as Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products since the segment’s inception in 2018, and prior to that was Chairman of Disney Parks and Resorts since 2015. Chapek also led Disney Consumer Products and served as president of Distribution for The Walt Disney Studios, and president of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment.
Now, I realize this news will upset many Disney theme park fans. However, Chapek is performing his duties as desired by the company. He is function as the person to “dislike” shall we say. Disney Corporation decided to make big changes. These big changes have upset many Disney fans. However, we will need to wait and see if these changes in direction work for the company in the long term. Yes, Disney fans, you can boo Bob Chapek for three more years.
Pirates & Princesses (PNP) is an independent, opinionated fan-powered news blog that covers Disney and Universal Theme Parks, Themed Entertainment and related Pop Culture from a consumer's point of view. Opinions expressed by our contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of PNP, its editors, affiliates, sponsors or advertisers. PNP is an unofficial news source and has no connection to The Walt Disney Company, NBCUniversal or any other company that we may cover.