Disney has faced box office bombs, political backlash, and streaming struggles in 2025, with only “Avatar: Fire and Ash” offering hope for recovery.
Disney is enduring one of its toughest years in recent memory, hit by box office failures, political controversies, and customer backlash. ABC suspended late-night host Jimmy Kimmel after false remarks about activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination, sparking subscription cancellations before quietly reinstating him. The studio also saw “Snow White” starring Rachel Zegler collapse at $205 million worldwide, far below past hits like “Beauty and the Beast.” Marvel’s “Captain America: Brave New World” and “Fantastic Four” underperformed, while Disney+ raised prices despite subscriber losses. Aside from a modest win with “Lilo & Stitch,” the company has struggled to connect with audiences tired of overused franchises. Searchlight’s awards hopefuls “Rental Family” and Bradley Cooper’s “Is This Thing On?” have failed to generate Oscar buzz. CEO Bob Iger’s last major bet is James Cameron’s upcoming “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” expected to deliver a much-needed hit this December.