Disney Parks, Movies, and TV Shows Face Political Turmoil as Trump Plots His Revenge

Disney and Donald Trump—two titans of American culture—seem to be heading toward a collision course. While Disney has delighted generations with its theme parks, blockbuster films, and family-friendly content, the company’s recent decisions have drawn ire from conservatives, with Trump himself leading the charge. As Trump positions himself for a second presidential term, his frustrations with Disney’s “woke” agenda could escalate into a full-scale cultural and political battle.

From casting decisions in major films to the inclusion of diverse narratives, Disney has taken steps to align with modern sensibilities. However, those moves have alienated some, particularly among Trump’s supporters. Now, the former president appears ready to make Disney a symbol of what he sees as the excesses of corporate liberalism.

Trump’s Grievances with Disney

Trump’s issues with Disney are manifold, and his criticisms have grown louder in recent years. In May 2023, Trump called the company a “woke and disgusting shadow of its former self,” lambasting what he sees as a departure from traditional values.

Casting Controversies

Disney’s live-action remakes of classic films have been a frequent target of conservative critique. The Little Mermaid featured Halle Bailey, a Black actress, as Ariel, sparking debates over race and representation. Similarly, the upcoming Snow White remake, starring Colombian-Polish actress Rachel Zegler, drew fire from conservative circles. Zegler’s outspoken criticism of Trump only added fuel to the fire, making her casting a flashpoint in the culture war.

Marvel’s Political Edge

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has also found itself at the center of Trump’s grievances. The forthcoming film Captain America: Brave New World introduces a Black Captain America (Anthony Mackie) battling a corrupt U.S. president who transforms into the villainous Red Hulk. The president is played by Harrison Ford, a vocal critic of Trump, making the storyline appear, to some, as a thinly veiled jab at the former president.

ABC News and The View

Disney-owned ABC has long been a source of frustration for Trump. Shows like The View have been unapologetically critical of him, and Trump has accused ABC News of bias. After a 2024 presidential debate aired on the network, Trump declared that ABC “should lose its license” for what he called unfair treatment.

An Unlikely Connection: Trump in the Hall of Presidents

Ironically, Disney World immortalized Trump in one of its most iconic attractions: the Hall of Presidents. The animatronic figure of Trump, unveiled in 2017, delivers a speech adapted from his own words, marking his place in American history.

While the animatronic draws visitors daily, its existence underscores the unusual dynamic between Trump and Disney. On one hand, the company recognizes his historical significance; on the other, its modern stances have placed it firmly in his crosshairs.

Could Trump Retaliate Against Disney?

If Trump returns to the White House, he could have multiple avenues to escalate his feud with Disney. Here are a few possibilities:

1. Public Boycotts

Trump has a track record of mobilizing boycotts against brands he deems unfriendly. In the past, he has targeted companies like Goodyear and Coca-Cola. A similar campaign against Disney could focus on its films, theme parks, or streaming service, Disney+.

2. Regulatory Challenges

Trump’s administration could lean on federal agencies to scrutinize Disney’s business practices. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), for example, could investigate ABC News under the guise of ensuring “public interest,” especially with Trump appointee Brendan Carr poised to lead the agency. Carr has already vowed to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, aligning with Trump’s criticisms of corporate America.

3. Reigniting the Florida Battle

Disney’s feud with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over the “Don’t Say Gay” bill became a national story. If Trump returns to office, he could use his platform to amplify these issues, pushing for similar federal policies and further pressuring Disney’s operations in Florida.

4. Conservative Alternatives to Disney

Given Trump’s media savvy, he could support or launch conservative-themed entertainment ventures. A rival streaming platform, for instance, could challenge Disney’s dominance by catering to audiences seeking alternatives to its progressive narratives.

Disney’s Balancing Act

Disney faces a tricky path forward, especially as it tries to appeal to a diverse global audience while managing domestic political pressures. Under CEO Bob Iger, the company has worked to rebuild its reputation and stabilize its finances, reporting revenue growth in recent quarters. However, Iger’s impending retirement in 2026 raises questions about who will guide Disney through this politically charged landscape.

Dana Walden, a close ally of Vice President Kamala Harris, is rumored to be a frontrunner for the role. Walden’s ties to Harris could inflame tensions with conservatives, including Trump, who has already criticized her during his 2024 campaign.

A Broader Cultural Clash

The feud between Trump and Disney is emblematic of the larger cultural and political battles shaping America today. For Trump, Disney represents a powerful symbol of corporate liberalism and the so-called “woke” agenda. For Disney, staying true to its values while maintaining broad appeal is an increasingly delicate task.

“Disney is walking a tightrope,” said Mike Fahey, CEO of Fahey Communications. “On one side, they face pressure from progressive audiences and employees to champion inclusivity. On the other, they risk alienating conservative customers, especially with Trump using Disney as a rallying point for his base.”

The Future of Trump vs. Disney

As Trump and Disney continue their war of words, the stakes are high. Disney’s ability to weather political storms while maintaining its cultural relevance will determine its future as a global entertainment leader. Meanwhile, Trump’s focus on Disney signals his willingness to expand cultural battles into the corporate sphere.

For now, Disney visitors can still see Trump’s animatronic figure in the Hall of Presidents, delivering his speech alongside Washington, Lincoln, and other leaders. Whether that animatronic becomes a flashpoint in the Trump-Disney feud or remains a symbol of history’s continuity is yet to be seen.

What is certain is that the feud between Trump and Disney reflects deeper divides in American society. As one of the world’s most influential companies faces off with one of its most polarizing figures, the outcome could reshape the intersection of politics and entertainment for years to come.

Do you think Donald Trump’s Presidency will heavily impact Disney?