Disney's Bob Iger Reveals Near Misses: Twitter, Apple, and Bond

In a candid exit interview with The Financial Times, former Disney CEO Bob Iger has pulled back the curtain on several major strategic moves that Disney nearly made but ultimately didn't. These revelations shed light on pivotal moments in the entertainment giant's recent history, including attempts to acquire Twitter, a snub from Apple, and a missed opportunity with the iconic James Bond franchise.

Iger confirmed that Disney had come very close to purchasing Twitter at what he described as a 'very attractive price.' This was before Elon Musk's acquisition of the social media platform in 2022, which subsequently led to its rebranding as X. Iger had ambitious plans for Twitter, aiming to integrate it more deeply into Disney's media ecosystem. However, the deal ultimately didn't materialize, leaving many to wonder what might have been.

Adding to the list of near misses, Iger also revealed that Disney had expressed interest in acquiring the rights to the James Bond franchise. However, this pursuit was unsuccessful, with the franchise remaining with its current custodians. While the specifics of the negotiations and the reasons for their failure weren't fully detailed, the mention of this iconic property highlights Disney's aggressive acquisition strategy during Iger's tenure.

Perhaps one of the most surprising revelations is that Disney was reportedly snubbed by Apple when exploring potential collaborations or mergers. Iger alluded to an interaction with Apple that did not lead to a partnership, though the exact nature of this encounter remains vague. Given Apple's increasing foray into content and streaming services, this missed connection is particularly intriguing.

These disclosures from Bob Iger offer a fascinating glimpse into the high-stakes world of media mergers and acquisitions. They underscore the complexities and often unpredictable nature of these deals, where even significant efforts can fall short. For fans and industry observers alike, these 'what ifs' offer a compelling narrative about the strategic decisions that shape the future of entertainment giants like Disney.