Abigail Disney is an American film producer, director, philanthropist, and social activist. She is widely recognized for her contributions to the film industry and her philanthropic efforts. Born on January 24, 1960, in Los Angeles, California, Abigail is the daughter of Roy E. Disney and the great-niece of Walt Disney. Her grandfather, Roy O. Disney, co-founded The Walt Disney Company alongside his brother Walt.
What Is Abigail Disney’s Net Worth?
As of 2024, Abigail Disney has an estimated net worth of $110 million. Her wealth is derived from her inheritance, investments, and her successful career in filmmaking and philanthropy. Despite her substantial fortune, she has been vocal about wealth inequality and has given away significant portions of her wealth to various charitable causes.
How Did Abigail Disney Start Her Career?
Abigail Disney’s career began in academia. She graduated from Yale University in 1982 with a BA in English literature, followed by an MA from Stanford University, and later earned a PhD in philosophy from Columbia University in 1994. While pursuing her doctorate, she taught at Iona College in New Rochelle. Her transition into filmmaking occurred in 2006 after meeting Liberian peace activist Leymah Gbowee. This encounter inspired her to co-produce the documentary “Pray the Devil Back to Hell,” which documented the lives of women in Liberia.
What Are Her Major Achievements in Filmmaking?
Abigail Disney co-founded Fork Films in 2007 with Gini Reticker and serves as its CEO and president. Her first documentary, “Pray the Devil Back to Hell,” won Best Documentary at the Tribeca Film Festival. She has since produced and executive produced numerous films, including “Sergio,” “Playground,” “Sons of Perdition,” and “The Queen of Versailles.” In 2015, she made her directorial debut with “The Armor of Light.” In 2018, she launched another production company, Level Forward, which focuses on expanding opportunities for emerging voices. Her second feature film, “The American Dream and Other Fairy Tales,” was released in 2022.
What Are Her Views on Wealth and Philanthropy?
Abigail Disney is known for her outspoken views on wealth and social justice. She has criticized the concentration of wealth and the environmental impact of private jets, even though her family owns one. Disney has donated approximately $70 million of her personal wealth to charitable causes since turning 21. In 2019, she revealed her net worth to be $120 million, stating that she could have been worth as much as $500 million if she had not given away so much money and invested more aggressively.
How Is Abigail Disney Involved in Philanthropy?
Abigail Disney is deeply involved in philanthropic activities. In 1991, she co-founded the Daphne Foundation with her husband Pierre Hauser to support programs combating poverty in New York City. In 2008, she launched Peace is Loud, a nonprofit organization that highlights women leaders through media and live events. She is also a member of Patriotic Millionaires, advocating for higher taxes on the wealthy. Disney has traveled to conflict zones like the Congo and Sri Lanka to support peace-building initiatives and has participated in significant peace actions, such as crossing the De-Militarized Zone between South and North Korea in 2015.
What Is Her Relationship with The Disney Corporation?
Despite her family legacy, Abigail Disney has been a vocal critic of The Walt Disney Corporation. She has condemned the company’s labor practices, particularly the compensation of its executives compared to the wages of its workers. In 2019, she criticized the then-CEO Bob Iger’s salary and the working conditions at Disneyland. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she denounced the company’s decision to furlough low-paid workers. In 2022, she criticized CEO Bob Chapek for his initial silence on Florida’s Parental Rights in Education Bill, which has been labeled homophobic.
What Is Abigail Disney’s Personal Life Like?
Abigail Disney married Pierre Hauser in 1988, and the couple has four children. They reside in New York City. Disney maintains a private family life while actively engaging in public and philanthropic activities.
What Are Some Notable Films Produced by Abigail Disney?
Abigail Disney has an extensive filmography with numerous impactful documentaries and films. Some notable productions include:
- “Pray the Devil Back to Hell” (2008)
- “Sergio” (2009)
- “Playground” (2009)
- “Sons of Perdition” (2010)
- “The Queen of Versailles” (2012)
- “Food Chains” (2014)
- “The Armor of Light” (2015)
- “Cameraperson” (2016)
- “When God Sleeps” (2017)
- “Liyana” (2017)
- “Be Natural: The Untold Story of Alice Guy-Blaché” (2018)
Conclusion
Abigail Disney is a multifaceted individual who has made significant contributions to film, philanthropy, and social activism. Her legacy extends beyond her family name, as she continues to use her platform and resources to advocate for social justice, support emerging voices in film, and promote peace and equality worldwide. Her life’s work reflects a commitment to making a positive impact on society.