Iger Surprises Disneyland Guests During Unexpected Visit
Less than two weeks after taking over the reins (again) at the Walt Disney Company, Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger joined Guests yesterday at Disneyland Park. Alongside Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, the pair greeted fans in both theme parks prior to last night’s Candlelight Processional.
Iger shared his excitement regarding his return to the parks early this morning in a Tweet. Not only did he rejoice in the splendor of the Candlelight Processional, but Iger also shared a stellar photograph of the beloved holiday event.
Candlelight Processional @disneyland tonight. So nice to be back and such a wonderful show! pic.twitter.com/kVHhOwOMAS
— Robert Iger (@RobertIger) December 4, 2022
On social media, the sighting continues to cause quite a bit of excitement. Crowds surrounding the pair during the stroll shared in the emotion of the unexpected meet-and-greet. Some even took photos with Iger as he casually walked through Town Square.
The crowd went WILD when they saw Bob Iger walking in Town Square at Disneyland just now. pic.twitter.com/ZwiuxjDEBa
— jaytasmic (@jaysquivel) December 3, 2022
“Welcome home, Bob,” yells one Guest in a video captured by graphic designer Jonathon (@jaystasmic), which he shared on Twitter with two up-close stills. Jonathon, who goes by Jaytasmic on the social platform, also radiated enthusiasm from his Tweet: “OMG DADDY IGER AT DISNEYLAND FOR CANDLELIGHT!!!!”
Disney fan Jennifer Ann (@jnifferann) shared a video of the pair walking with their entourage through Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure Park earlier in the evening too.
Bob Iger and Josh D’Amaro visiting Avengers Campus at #Disneyland resort pic.twitter.com/ZWE9JYs3IY
— Jennifer Ann (@jnifferann) December 4, 2022
On November 20th, the Walt Disney Company Board of Directors shocked the business world (and Disney fans) with the Sunday night news that Iger would return to the role of CEO effective immediately. Iger takes over the company for a two-year leadership role, tasked with establishing “strategic direction” for the company and “developing a successor,” according to the statement.
As seen from the crowds yesterday, Iger’s popularity among Disney fans certainly far surpasses former CEO Bob Chapek. Chapek succeeded Iger when Iger stepped down from the role in February 2020 after decades of service to the company.
Disney CEO Bob Iger and Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro visited Disneyland today.
📷 | @jaysquivel pic.twitter.com/AmukNjIrw6
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) December 3, 2022
Though many questions still remain about how Iger will reshape the company, yesterday brought such a welcome shift to see him out and about in the parks, enjoying that Disney magic so treasured by millions.
Feature Image Credit: @Jaysquivel/Twitter