The Walt Disney Company has grown from a small animation studio into a global entertainment empire, but that success didn’t happen overnight. It took the leadership of several key people to navigate the company through innovation, expansion, and even near-collapse. In this 2-part series, we’re breaking down the history of Disney’s leadership —exploring how each leader shaped the company, from Walt Disney’s groundbreaking vision to Bob Iger’s game-changing acquisitions.

We’ll discuss how Roy O. Disney fulfilled his brother’s dream of Walt Disney World, how Michael Eisner revived Disney animation and theme parks, and how Bob Iger secured Disney’s dominance in film and streaming. We’ll also look at often-overlooked CEOs like Donn Tatum, Card Walker, and Ron Miller—who kept the company afloat in challenging times.

Join us as we explore the major decisions, successes, and controversies that defined each Disney leader and shaped the magic we know today.

Part 1 - Highlights

1. Walt Disney (1923–1966)

- Co-founded The Walt Disney Company and redefined animation with Mickey Mouse, Snow White, and more

- Created Disneyland, forever changing the entertainment and theme park industries

- Envisioned Walt Disney World and EPCOT but passed away before seeing them completed

2. Roy O. Disney (1929–1971)

- Took over as CEO after Walt’s passing and ensured that Walt Disney World became a reality

- Opened Magic Kingdom in 1971 and dedicated the resort to his brother’s legacy

- Provided steady leadership to keep the company financially stable

3. Donn Tatum (1971–1976)

- The first non-Disney family member to serve as CEO

- Oversaw the completion of Walt Disney World’s early expansion

- Focused on corporate structure and financial growth, preparing Disney for global expansion

4. Card Walker (1976–1983)

- Led the development and opening of EPCOT Center, one of Disney’s most ambitious projects

- Oversaw the launch of Tokyo Disneyland, Disney’s first international park

- Faced creative struggles in Disney’s film division, with animation in decline

5. Ron Miller (1983–1984)

- Introduced Touchstone Pictures to allow Disney to produce more adult-oriented films (e.g., Splash, Who Framed Roger Rabbit)

- Created the Disney Channel, setting the stage for future media dominance

- Pushed for new technologies like early CGI but was ousted in a corporate takeover attempt

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