Michael Eisner Supports Iger in Disney Proxy Battle
Former CEO endorses current leadership as shareholders prepare for critical vote.
- Michael Eisner, former CEO of Disney, has expressed his support for Bob Iger and the current Disney board amidst a proxy fight with activist investors led by Nelson Peltz.
- Eisner's backing comes as Disney faces a crucial vote at its April 3 annual shareholders meeting, where investors will decide between Disney's slate of board candidates and those nominated by Peltz's Trian Partners and Blackwells Capital.
- In his statement, Eisner recalled a similar situation in 1983 when corporate raiders attempted a takeover of Disney, emphasizing the importance of experienced leadership for the company's future.
- Several major Disney shareholders, including George Lucas, Laurene Powell Jobs, and descendants of Walt Disney, have also shown their support for Iger and the company's board.
- Despite this, the proxy advisory firm ISS has recommended that shareholders elect Peltz to the Disney board, citing concerns over Disney's CEO succession planning.