Bob Iger to return as CEO of Walt Disney Company, board announces

LOS ANGELES — Bob Iger is returning to The Walt Disney Company as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Former CEO Bob Chapek has resigned.

A statement from Susan Arnold, chairman of the board of directors of The Walt Disney Company, thanked Chapek for his service, including navigating the company through the pandemic.

Iger has agreed to serve as Disney’s CEO for two years, with the board’s mandate to set strategic direction for renewed growth and to work closely with the board in developing a successor.

In a letter to Disney employees Sunday night, he said he’s excited to embark on new adventures with the company.

Iger resigned as CEO almost a year ago.

In 2005 he took over the management from Michael Eisner.

During his tenure, Iger oversaw key acquisitions including Marvel Studios, Pixar, and Lucasfilm.

The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of this ABC network.