Key Facts
In a recent exit interview with the Financial Times, former Disney CEO Bob Iger disclosed several major acquisition attempts and merger talks that never materialized. These include efforts to buy the James Bond franchise, a near-purchase of Twitter, and discussions about merging with Apple.
Details of the Revelations
James Bond Franchise
Iger revealed that after Disney's successful acquisition of Pixar in 2006 for $7.4 billion, the company felt unstoppable and drew up a list of acquisition targets. "It was like the clouds lifted and the sun started to shine again," Iger said. "We put together a list of acquisition targets. Marvel was one, 'Star Wars' was another, James Bond was one. We had a list and I figured let's just tick them off and buy them all." However, the James Bond franchise, now owned by Amazon, remained out of reach.
Twitter Acquisition
Iger also disclosed that Disney came close to buying Twitter from then-owner Jack Dorsey "at a very attractive price." The plan was to use Twitter as a global distribution platform for Disney content. However, on the morning the deal was to close, Iger got cold feet, worrying it would be "a horrible distraction." Ultimately, Elon Musk purchased Twitter and transformed it into X.
Apple Merger Talks
Iger had previously hinted in his 2019 memoir that a merger between Disney and Apple might have been possible if Steve Jobs were still alive. In the interview, he confirmed that "some conversations" did take place. "We talked about it internally, and we had some conversations with Apple about it, but it never went anywhere. Apple didn't show that much interest," Iger said. He described the potential merger as "truly transformational and equal."
Impact and What Readers Should Know
These revelations shed light on Disney's aggressive expansion strategy under Iger, which successfully brought Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm into the Disney fold. The failed attempts highlight the challenges of mega-deals and the importance of timing and leadership conviction. Iger stepped down as Disney CEO in March 2026, succeeded by Josh D'Amaro. He has since taken a role as an adviser to Thrive Capital, a venture-capital firm founded by Josh Kushner.
FAQ
- Did Disney try to buy the James Bond franchise? Yes, Bob Iger revealed that James Bond was on Disney's acquisition list alongside Marvel and Star Wars, but the deal never materialized.
- Why did Disney walk away from buying Twitter? Iger got cold feet on the morning of the deal, fearing it would be a 'horrible distraction' for the company.
- Did Disney and Apple discuss a merger? Yes, Iger confirmed that some conversations took place, but Apple showed little interest and the talks went nowhere.