Former Disney CEO Bob Chapek defends the steep theme-park price hikes he introduced in his upcoming memoir, arguing they reduced crowding and improved guests’ experiences. His changes included dynamic pricing and charging for some formerly free perks.
Under Chapek, Disney replaced its complimentary FastPass with paid Genie+ and Lightning Lane, charged for parking at its Florida hotels and discontinued its free airport shuttle. Monthly prices for Disney+ rose from $7.99 to $10.99, and ESPN from $6.99 to $9.99.
Chapek blames his firing on what he describes as a relentless sabotage campaign by Bob Iger, who had chosen him as successor. Disney’s board later fired Chapek and brought Iger back; Disney declined to comment.
