Robert Downey Jr. celebrated Bob Iger's extensive tenure at Disney with a concise tribute, describing the former CEO's legacy in four words during Iger's induction as a Disney Legend at the D23 event. "Fortune favors the brave," Downey Jr. stated, characterizing these words as reflective of Iger's core quality: courage.
Downey Jr. expanded on this sentiment, suggesting that Iger's bravery manifested in bold decisions made amidst significant risk, in trusting his instincts, and in empowering others to exceed their limitations. The actor's remarks came as Iger, 75, prepares for new endeavors following his departure from the top role at Disney earlier this year. He has recently taken on a new position after acquiring the Los Angeles Lakers with Josh Kushner.
Despite concluding his chapter at Disney, Downey Jr. indicated that Iger's career is far from over. "And as he closes this chapter and begins the next, somehow, somehow, seems like he’s still only just getting started," Downey Jr. said. "That is, Bob, why you truly are the legend in every sense of the word."
Iger was inducted into the company's hall of fame as part of the 2026 class, which also includes Anne Hathaway and Lin-Manuel Miranda. His successor, Josh D’Amaro, introduced Iger at the ceremony, which also featured reflections on Iger's impact from figures such as Harrison Ford, Ellen Pompeo, and Diane Sawyer.
D’Amaro, as quoted by Variety, expressed admiration for Iger not just for his accomplishments, but for his character. Iger, in turn, thanked D’Amaro, his successor as CEO since March, expressing pride in calling him his successor and noting that D'Amaro is "wearing that title really well."
During his acceptance speech, Iger shifted focus to the creative individuals within the company. "It’s not lost on me; I’m the executive in the room," Iger said. "What executives typically do is they sign checks and they turn the lights on in the morning. I usually make coffee. But more than anything else, we’re around to support creators, the true talent that drives this company forward."
Iger's long association with Disney began in 1974 when he joined ABC as a studio supervisor. He advanced through various roles before Disney acquired ABC and its parent company, Capital Cities, in 1996. He eventually became Disney's CEO in 2005.
His initial tenure as CEO was marked by significant strategic acquisitions, including Pixar in 2006, Marvel in 2009, and Lucasfilm in 2012. Iger first stepped down as CEO in 2021 after extending his term during the COVID-19 pandemic. He returned to the role in 2022, replacing Bob Chapek, and stepped down for a second time at the beginning of 2026. He is expected to continue as a senior adviser and a member of the Disney board through the end of the year.