Disney+ is reportedly going through a rough patch because a lot of subscriptions are, as per rumors, being cancelled after Elon Musk and Disney CEO Bob Iger crossed swords.
Musk made some controversial comments on November 29, 2023, at The New York Times Dealbook Summit, accusing Disney of blackmail and calling for an advertising boycott. After Disney decided to stop advertising on Musk's platform, X, he attacked Iger by saying:
"go f—k yourself"
Musk's strong opinions about advertising and the resulting consequences are reportedly causing many people to cancel their subscriptions to Disney+. The phrase "Cancel Disney Plus" has been used a whole lot more since they announced a price increase, with a huge 510% increase. One fan said:
"Don't forget to cancel those Disney plus subscriptions"
Reader comments on the issueReader comments on the issueReader comments on the issueReader comments on the issue
Elon Musk vs. Bob Iger: YouTube video breaks down the viral confrontation
In a popular YouTube video by Benny Johnson, the face-off between Elon Musk and Disney CEO Bob Iger is the main point of focus. The video breaks down Musk's accusations, where he said that Iger tried to blackmail him by getting advertisers to boycott X (formerly Twitter).
Benny Johnson's analysis goes deep into the reasons for their ongoing feud, bringing up worries about ethics and how it all looks to the public.
After Musk made his claims, Bob Iger, the CEO of Disney, said they decided to stop advertising on Musk's platform X. Iger made it clear that they believed being associated with Musk's public position on X would harm the company. Pointing out Musk's backing of an anti-Semitic post as a prime example of clashing values, Iger stood up for Disney's choice.
Musk's response only made matters worse in the clash between companies. The ongoing feud highlights the complex dynamics between personal beliefs and corporate actions.
Musk seemingly endorsed a post that showed Jewish people in a bad light, which got many users riled up and demanding the cancellation of Disney+.
Changes in Disney+'s prices and sharing rules, along with the higher prices, have also seemingly made people unhappy and caused them to cancel their subscriptions. The Sony issue, Elon Musk's supposed support for free speech, and the fallout from the clash with Iger also add to the uncertainty about what lies ahead for Disney+.