In a brief interview conducted recently by Barron’s, Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, shared his thoughts about a busy 2019, including the successful launch of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the upcoming release of Disney’s new streaming service, Disney+.
Of the recent opening of Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park, Iger said that it has exceeded their expectations in all areas, including food and merchandise. He also says that guests love how the new land resembles the popular movies.
“It’s so immersive they forget they’re in Disneyland.”
With the debut of Disney+ coming in November, Iger says that fans are eager for it. He says that the intent isn’t to compete with Netflix, but fans do want something from “a brand people know and love.”
Disney+ will not only include classic films and recent releases from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars, and National Geographic, but will also feature original programming.
“We believe there is a voracious appetite for what we make, and to deliver it over the top.”
As to the rest of 2019, Iger calls it a “special year” and says it will continue into the next fiscal year, which begins October 1st. Several big name films are still to coming this year, including The Lion King, Frozen 2, and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. In the parks, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens August 29th at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, plus Tokyo Disneyland just broke ground on their big expansion.
“There’s always something being made.”
Source: Barron’s
Image: Disney
Tom is the host and producer of the DIS Unplugged: Disneyland Edition podcast, plus Disneyland Editor of The DIS. He enjoys traveling with his wife and teenage son. At this point, their favorite destination is Alaska, with a FIFTH cruise there planned for the Summer of 2019. In his spare time he volunteers with Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts, and help found his son's former Cub Scout Pack. His favorite Disneyland attraction is Space Mountain.
