Disney CEO Claims Adults Don't Like Watching Animated Movies – Screen Rant

Disney CEO Bob Chapek surrounds himself with controversy once again as he claims that animated movies are for kids and that adults don’t like them.
Disney CEO Bob Chapek comes under fire once again by claiming that adults do not enjoy watching animated movies. In 2020, former Disney CEO Bob Iger stepped down from the role, only to be replaced by Chapek who was serving as Disney Parks' Chairman at the time. However, the transition from predecessor to successor was anything but smooth as Chapek's ascension to the role was immediately met with the COVID-19 pandemic that halted many of Disney's operations. Meanwhile, Iger and Chapek reportedly had a falling out soon after when Chapek rejected Iger's offer to stay on and help navigate duties through the pandemic.
In addition, ever since taking on the role of CEO, Chapek has already faced backlash for his decisions on multiple occasions. Particular cases that increased the controversy surrounding Chapek include when Pixar employees expressed frustration over their films being exclusively released on Disney+, the simultaneous theatrical and Disney+ of Black Widow that subsequently led to star Scarlett Johansson's lawsuit towards the company, and the handling of Flordia's "Don't Say Gay" Bill which drew criticism from both Disney employees and audiences. Chapek's current track record during his short time as Disney CEO so far has reportedly already garnered Disney executives wanting his replacement and Iger reportedly stating that the appointment was a mistake.
Related: How Frozen’s Most Famous Scene References Another Disney Princess Movie
In a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal (via Cartoon Brew/Twitter), Chapek brings more negative attention to himself with a claim that animation is only for kids and not adults. These comments immediately triggered negative reactions, including one from The Lego Move co-director Christopher Miller. Check out the quote and Miller's reaction above.
“I always say that when [parents] put their kids to bed at night after watching [an animated film], they're probably not going to tune into another animated movie. They want something for them."
Chapek's opinions on animated movies make it appear that he believes that there is not much enjoyment that adults can find in an animated film. Despite being Disney's CEO, along with Disney and Pixar being known for producing animated movies with mature themes and emotional complexity that resonate with all age groups, Chapek seems to not understand Disney's audience. Animated films under Disney's banner have also been nominated in the past for awards such as Best Picture at the Academy Awards, such as Beauty and the Beast, Up, and Toy Story 3, so it's clear that many people believe animation is more than just a genre directed towards kids.
With all the heat that has already been targeted towards Chapek in the past, it really should be no surprise to see him end up in a familiar position again. That being said, it is interesting to see the CEO of Disney make comments that disregard the creators and fan base of one of the company's profitable areas. It will be worth keeping an eye on how people will continue to react to this statement, as well as what else Chapek plans to do or say in the future.
Next: Why Walt Disney Hated His Last Cartoon
Source: Wall Street Journal (via Cartoon Brew/Twitter)

source