Elon Musk is calling for the firing of Bob Iger. The X owner and billionaire with controversial views publicly criticized the Disney chief executive on Thursday for the decision to remove ads from his struggling social media platform. Musk went as far as to demand Iger's removal from his position.
"Musk called for Iger's immediate termination, citing Iger's tendency to use his position to intimidate critics. Musk also expressed that Walt Disney would be displeased with how Iger has managed the company."
Disney representatives did not respond to the comments. Iger is praised for transforming Disney into an entertainment powerhouse through successful acquisitions such as Star Wars, Marvel Studios, and Pixar during his previous tenure as CEO.
Disney, along with numerous other major companies, recently halted advertising on X after Musk promoted an antisemitic conspiracy theory that is embraced by White supremacists. Musk offered a tacit apology for the post last week following the exodus of companies ending their associations with X. However, he also delivered a profanity-laced message to companies that refuse to buy ads from his social media platform.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk and his security detail depart the company's local office in Washington, U.S. January 27, 2023.
Jonathan Ernst/Reuters
Many major brands are not just pausing their ads on Elon Musk's X, they are completely disassociating themselves from the platform. Musk repeatedly told the brands to "Go f**k yourself" on stage at The New York Times DealBook Summit.
During the summit, Musk specifically targeted Iger, expressing his frustrations with the Disney executive's explanation that the company had ceased advertising on X due to its association with Musk. Iger had earlier stated that the entertainment giant felt the connection with Elon Musk and X was not beneficial for them.
The decision to remove advertisements was made in response to a larger pattern on the social media site. Since Musk began leading in late 2022, several of his choices have led to an increase in hate speech, false information, and conspiracy theories on the platform.
Additionally, Musk himself has played a role in promoting the negativity on X. Most notably, he propagated the dangerous and untrue Pizzagate conspiracy theory. Since taking control of the company, he has also criticized the media, launched aggressive attacks on the Anti-Defamation League, and given a platform to extremists.
X is experiencing a significant financial impact due to the absence of key advertising partners, as the majority of its revenue is generated from advertising. Musk himself admitted at the DealBook Summit that the current shortage of major advertisers will probably result in the demise of his company.
"Based on this advertising boycott, it is likely to lead to the downfall of the company," Musk frankly stated.
Musk has failed to accept any personal responsibility for the precarious situation at X. Instead, he has blamed the advertisers and insinuated that they will bear the responsibility if X fails.
