Initially, Chapek declined to publicly condemn the legislation, only to backtrack in the face of a near revolt from staffers. Disney is one of the largest employers in the state of Florida, where it owns and operates Walt Disney World and other theme parks. Ron DeSantis and state legislators backed and ultimately passed a bill that prohibits instruction around gender identity and sexual orientation in kindergarten through third grade, Chapek was under pressure from staff to take a forceful public position. Department of Defense under the administrations of George W. He boasted both communications chops, as well as government experience, having spent four years at the Pentagon as chief spokesperson for the U.S. On paper, Morrell seemed to have the kind of experience Disney wanted as it looked to replace Zenia Mucha, its long-time communications czar, who was known for her message discipline and bare-knuckle tactics.
In an email to staff, Morrell wrote, “After three months in this new role, it has become clear to me that for a number of reasons it is not the right fit.” He joined the company in February and previously served as head of global affairs and chief legal officer for Spotify. Horacio Gutierrez, who serves as Disney’s general counsel, will take over Morrell’s government relations and global public policy purview.
