In fiscal year 2025, Disney earned total revenue of $94.4 billion, which is 3% higher than $91.2 billion in 2024. For the first time, its streaming business (Disney+ and Hulu) made a profit. In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, this segment generated $450 million in operating income.
After a disappointing performance in 2023, Disney made a strong comeback in 2025, securing the No. 1 position among Hollywood studios with a global box office collection of $6.58 billion. Zootopia 2 alone earned approximately $1.48 billion. Meanwhile, the theme parks continued to break records, with the “Experiences” segment generating a record $10 billion in revenue in Q1 2026.
In May 2026, The Walt Disney Company plans to introduce a major change in Germany: Disney Channel, which traditionally aired on scheduled television, will also be available on the Disney+ app—at no additional cost to users.
According to Eun-Ky Park, Disney Channel and Disney+ operate differently but complement each other. Disney Channel functions like traditional TV, where shows air at fixed times and families can watch together. In contrast, Disney+ allows users to watch any show or movie on demand, whenever they choose, along with access to live content such as sports. In simple terms, Disney Channel is time-based, while Disney+ is user-driven, and together they offer a more flexible and enhanced viewing experience.
CEO Bob Iger acknowledged that the company needs to focus more on entertainment rather than messaging in its storytelling. He stated, “Our primary goal is to entertain… people want to be entertained.”
Many critics and investors believe Disney placed too much emphasis on social messaging, which may have impacted the performance of films like The Marvels (2023). However, some fans argue that diversity remains one of Disney’s greatest strengths.
Josh D’Amaro, the new CEO, is believed to have a strong understanding of both “experiences” and storytelling. According to management analysts, his success will depend on how effectively he collaborates with creative leaders such as Dana Walden.
Analysts note that Disney’s stock is still under some pressure, but the profitability of its streaming business has improved long-term outlooks. Disney plans to invest $60 billion over the next decade in its theme parks, cruise lines, and new attractions.
Under D’Amaro’s leadership, the focus will be on creating rides and experiences that people don’t just “like,” but truly “love.” To achieve this, Disney will leverage advanced “Experience Intelligence.”