Surprise! Iger Drops-In On ABC News Editorial Meeting

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Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger made an unexpected appearance at ABC News’ daily editorial meeting in New York City on Thursday, where he voiced serious concerns about President Donald Trump’s newly enacted “Liberation Day” tariffs. According to Oliver Darcy’s Status newsletter, Iger warned of the potential fallout not only for Disney but for the broader U.S. economy.

The Wrap reports Iger told staffers that shifting overseas manufacturing to the U.S. on short notice is unfeasible and emphasized that the public largely misunderstands how tariffs function. Anonymous attendees interpreted this as a nudge for ABC News to better educate its audience on the issue.

The visit followed Trump’s signing of an executive order on Wednesday, which introduced sweeping tariffs targeting over 180 countries and U.S. trade partners. Trump hailed the move as “Liberation Day,” though economists and industry figures, including Hollywood executives, are increasingly apprehensive about its consequences.

Throughout the closed-door discussion, Iger remained actively engaged, offering candid insights, per Darcy’s account. He expressed particular worry about Disney’s cruise division, noting that two new ships under construction could face higher steel costs, potentially forcing the company to cut back on investments. On the topic of relocating production, Iger pointed out the logistical challenges, citing the thousands of specialized workers—such as those at Apple’s Foxconn facilities in China—who would need to be replaced and retrained in the U.S.

Iger’s presence at the meeting suggests growing unease with the Trump administration’s policies, a sentiment echoed by Thursday’s market reaction: the U.S. stock market saw its sharpest decline since 2020. The tariffs are set to roll out in phases, starting with a 10% levy on all countries this Saturday, followed by steeper, tailored tariffs on nations with significant U.S. trade deficits beginning April 9.