Disney (DIS) CEO Bob Iger is not picking sides between sequels and original storytelling, at least not publicly. During the company’s August earnings call, Iger made it clear that Disney’s future film slate won’t favor either reboots or fresh IP, but instead will lean into whatever “resonates with consumers.” That message, while diplomatic, has direct implications for Disney’s content pipeline, and for its stock performance in a market watching its content strategy, streaming margins, and box office momentum.
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Iger Clarifies IP Direction with a Consumer-First Approach
“We continue to be focused on creating new IP. Obviously, that’s of great value to us long term,” Iger said during the call. “But we also know that the popularity of our older IP remains significant.”
He added, “I wouldn’t say that we’ve got a priority one way or the other. Our priority is to put out great movies that ultimately resonate with consumers.”
This flexible stance comes at a time when Disney is actively leveraging its legacy catalog while slowly reinvesting in original franchises. Recent examples include the billion-dollar success of the live-action Lilo & Stitch, and the upcoming Moana reboot set for 2026. At the same time, original projects are still being developed under banners like 20th Century Fox and Searchlight.
Sequels Bring Box Office Wins, but Stock Needs Broader Momentum
Disney stock (DIS) has responded positively to recent signals that the studio is stabilizing its theatrical performance. Shares rose slightly following the earnings report, as investors processed a better-than-expected quarter driven by streaming revenue growth and content cost controls.
But long-term upside for Disney stock may depend on more than just safe box office bets. Iger’s comments reflect a strategic balancing act. Legacy IP generates predictable returns — but original content builds future franchises. For shareholders, the mix matters.
Disney’s Fantastic Four reboot, now leading the domestic box office, saw a sharp drop in its second weekend. While the film is positioned as a fresh take, Iger acknowledged the blurred lines between reboot and new IP.
“You could even argue that Marvel continues to mine its library of characters for original property,” he said. “Even though, for instance, there have been Fantastic Four movies before, we kind of consider the one that we did an original property in many respects, because we’re introducing those characters to people who are not familiar with them at all.”
Streaming Consolidation also Supports Stock Confidence
In parallel to theatrical content strategy, Disney is consolidating its streaming offerings. The company announced that Hulu’s standalone app will wind down in 2026 and be integrated into Disney+, creating a single platform experience.
Investors have welcomed the move, seeing it as a step toward cutting overhead and improving engagement across its direct-to-consumer segment. Disney is also reportedly “experimenting like crazy” with new content formats and release strategies, a phrase that stood out in the call and points to a more agile approach under Iger’s leadership.
Disney Stock Holds Steady as Market Watches Execution
Despite years of volatility, Disney stock has shown signs of renewed investor confidence. Streaming losses have narrowed, and theatrical releases are regaining momentum. But the key test will come in how the company delivers on Iger’s stated goal: putting out great movies that connect.
Sequels and reboots may drive short-term box office wins. But for Disney’s stock to sustain its upward trend, the company will need new hits that stand on their own, both creatively and financially. That means original IP still matters, even if it isn’t the official priority.
Is Disney Stock a Good Buy?
According to TipRanks, Disney stock currently holds a “Strong Buy” rating based on 19 Wall Street analysts. Of those, 16 rate it a Buy, three rate it a Hold, and none recommend a Sell.
The stock has an average 12-month DIS price target of $135.56, suggesting 20.22% upside potential from the current price.
