Bob Iger is responsible for one of the largest media companies in the world, as well as being a leading global player in the theme park industry. Under Iger’s watch, the Walt Disney Company has significantly expanded its portfolio of intellectual property (IP). From Marvel to Star Wars, much of the IP acquired over the past decade is now beginning to find its way into Disney’s theme parks and resorts around the world.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened at both Walt Disney World (WDW) in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California in May 2019. Like Pandora – The World of Avatar at WDW’s Animal Kingdom, these themed lands provide a new level of storytelling and gritty immersion that is a world away from the cartoon worlds with which Disney made its name.
Mickey Mouse remains a powerful ambassador for the company, particularly in Disney’s theme parks. Significant investment is now underway at Disney’s parks and resorts in Paris, Tokyo, Shanghai and Hong Kong.
Disney’s media content remains some of the most heavily consumed on the planet. With an even richer portfolio of IP to draw on than ever before, the company’s theme parks should remain in pole position for the foreseeable future.