Disney is reportedly undergoing a significant shift in its corporate strategy following a series of disappointing box office performances. The company’s recent films, including Snow White, The Little Mermaid, and Lightyear, have faced criticism for being perceived as “too woke,” leading to a reevaluation of its internal initiatives.
In response to these challenges, Disney has rebranded its “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” (DEI) efforts to “Opportunity & Inclusion.” Sonia Coleman, Disney’s top human resources executive, communicated this shift to staff, stating it aims to “empower all through access, opportunity, and a culture of belonging.” The DEI framework is designed to foster fair environments by representing diverse backgrounds and ensuring equal opportunities.
According to industry insider Matthew Belloni, Disney executives have acknowledged the internal shift towards a more conservative stance. He noted, “That message has definitely been received internally and has manifested itself throughout the content operation.” Belloni also speculated that upcoming casting decisions, such as the new Rapunzel for the live-action remake of Tangled, may favor white actresses, reflecting a departure from the company’s previous commitments to diversity.
This change may impact divisions like Onyx Collective, Disney’s studio focused on diverse storytelling. In a statement regarding the evolving strategy, Disney affirmed its commitment to aligning its approach with business objectives and company values, a process initiated nearly two years ago.
The shift is seen as a reaction to a changing political landscape, particularly since the administration of former President Donald Trump. Belloni suggested that Disney is now operating from a position of fear, concerned about political repercussions, potential boycotts, and the impact on its business dealings. He highlighted CEO Bob Iger‘s recent decision to pull Jimmy Kimmel from the air as indicative of this new direction.
Disney’s struggles at the box office have been evident throughout 2023. The company has faced significant criticism, particularly after Snow White, starring Rachel Zegler, grossed only $205 million globally after its release in March. This pattern of underperformance continued with the much-anticipated Fantastic Four reboot, which also failed to meet expectations.
As Disney navigates this tumultuous period, it has removed its “Reimagine Tomorrow” website, which previously showcased its diversity initiatives. Belloni noted that upcoming film development projects have been purged of content that could lead to cultural controversies similar to those surrounding Lightyear and The Little Mermaid.
Looking ahead, Disney’s approach to content creation and representation will likely face scrutiny as the company attempts to balance its commitment to diversity with the shifting expectations of its audience and shareholders. The outcome of this strategic pivot remains to be seen, but it underscores the complexities faced by major studios in today’s evolving entertainment landscape.
