Bob Iger Honored as Disney Legend With Star-Studded D23 Tribute

Bob Iger, the longtime Disney executive who led the company through some of its biggest transformations, received an emotional farewell at the D23 Disney Legends ceremony, where he was honored as a Disney Legend.

Iger was celebrated by several major Hollywood stars, including Robert Downey Jr., Harrison Ford and Ellen Pompeo, as well as Disney’s incoming CEO Josh D’Amaro.

The ceremony served as a major tribute to Iger’s decades-long impact on Disney. During his leadership, the company expanded its entertainment empire through major acquisitions and transformed its film and streaming businesses.

Robert Downey Jr. and Harrison Ford Pay Tribute

Downey Jr., one of Marvel’s biggest stars, was among those who honored Iger at the ceremony. The actor’s appearance carried particular significance given Disney’s relationship with Marvel and the enormous success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe during Iger’s tenure.

Harrison Ford, another major star associated with Disney through the company’s ownership of Lucasfilm and the Star Wars franchise, also participated in the celebration.

Their appearances highlighted how Iger’s business decisions reshaped Disney’s position in Hollywood, bringing franchises such as Marvel, Star Wars and Pixar under the company’s umbrella.

Iger’s Disney Legacy

Iger first became Disney CEO in 2005 and oversaw a period of enormous expansion. Under his leadership, Disney acquired Pixar, Marvel Entertainment, Lucasfilm and 21st Century Fox, dramatically increasing the company’s entertainment portfolio.

He later returned as CEO in 2022 after Bob Chapek’s departure and guided Disney through a major period of restructuring before eventually preparing for another leadership transition.

At D23, Iger’s successor Josh D’Amaro was also part of the tribute, underscoring the transition to a new era for the company.

The Disney Legends honor recognizes individuals whose contributions have had a significant and lasting impact on the company. Iger’s induction places him alongside some of the most influential figures in Disney history.

The D23 ceremony therefore represented more than an awards event—it marked a symbolic farewell to one of the most influential executives in modern entertainment.