Disney CEO Robert Iger is fed-up with the culture war sparked by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
In March, DeSantis incorrectly accused the company of adding “sexuality into the programming for young kids," referring to them as a "woke' corporation. Disney has been the target of right-wing media attacks since they spoke out against the anti-LGBTQ+ laws passed in Florida, the home state of their largest theme park, Disneyworld.
“The notion that Disney is in any way sexualizing children is preposterous and inaccurate,” Iger said in a CNBC interview Thursday. He added, “The last thing that I want for the company is for the company to be drawn into any culture wars. Our goal is to tell wonderful stories and a positive impact on the world.”
The company previously denounced DeSantis' colloquially named "Don't Say Gay" bill, which now bars K-8 public school teachers from discussing queer identities at risk of losing their licenses. Florida has also passed bans on gender-affirming health care, as well as attempted to classify drag performances as adult entertainment, barring children from attending.
In response to Disney's denunciation, the Florida government soon after exerted control over the company's special taxing district. While Disney circumvented government control, Iger said that the company is “concerned [DeSantis] has decided to retaliate against the company for taking a position on pending legislation."
The CEO also responded to the protestors who gathered outside of Disneyworld in support of Ron DeSantis' 2024 presidential campaign. Weeks ago, alongside the Republican's banners, protestors stood outside the Disneyworld entrance flying Nazi flags, which Iger called “horrifying, quite frankly.”
“It’s concerning to me that anyone would encourage a level of intolerance – of even hate – that could become dangerous action,” he said.
DeSantis has not yet denounced the demonstration, nor given any statement distancing himself from white supremacist groups.
