Downey Jr. Honors Iger's Legacy as 'Brave' Leader
At the D23 convention in Anaheim, California, Robert Downey Jr. honored Bob Iger's legacy as Disney CEO with four words that encapsulate his leadership style: 'Fortune favors the brave.' Downey Jr. stated that these words explain Iger's primary quality - courage - and described it as trusting one's instincts and empowering people to aspire beyond their limitations.
Iger, 75, was inducted into Disney's hall of fame alongside other notable figures like Anne Hathaway and Lin-Manuel Miranda. His successor, Josh D'Amaro, introduced him at the ceremony and praised Iger for his impact on the entertainment giant. Iger accepted the honor and acknowledged D'Amaro's leadership, stating that he is 'wearing that title really well.'
Iger's relationship with Disney spans over five decades, starting when he joined ABC as a studio supervisor in 1974. He rose through the ranks before becoming Disney CEO in 2005 and transformed the company through several blockbuster takeovers, including Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm.