Disney is facing a significant challenge as it struggles to connect with young men from Generation Z. A recent report from Variety highlights that many of these young men, aged 13 to 28, have lost interest in the company. This group is described as lonely and heavily involved in gaming, largely due to the isolation caused by COVID-19 lockdowns.
Disney executives are now exploring various strategies to win back this demographic. They are considering everything from grand global adventures to classic treasure hunts. However, some critics argue that the root of the problem lies in the stories Disney has chosen to tell.
Bill Rivers, a bestselling author and former speechwriter for the Trump administration, believes that Disney has alienated its audience by promoting an ideology that dismisses traditional values associated with masculinity. He argues that Disney’s recent content has overlooked the importance of themes like honor, bravery, and noble purpose, which resonate with many young men.
Rivers asserts that the solution for Disney is to return to traditional storytelling. He suggests that the company should focus on creating compelling heroes, formidable villains, and high-stakes plots that explore timeless challenges such as family, love, and redemption. He emphasizes that the setting of the story is less important than the characters and the narrative itself.
For years, Disney successfully engaged young men with franchises like Marvel and Star Wars. However, Rivers points out that the current leadership has mismanaged these beloved stories, prioritizing political messages over authentic storytelling. He believes that this approach has turned off many viewers, especially young men who feel patronized by the content.
Rivers also critiques the notion that young men are simply gaming-obsessed. He argues that their struggles are more deeply rooted in societal issues exacerbated by the pandemic. He maintains that what young men truly seek are themes of brotherhood, purpose, and patriotism in the stories they consume.
He notes that the current blockbusters are missing these critical elements. Rivers’ own work, which explores young boys transitioning into manhood, has resonated with audiences because it taps into these enduring themes. He believes that as a society, the stories we tell shape who we are, and Disney has strayed from this truth by embracing a narrow ideology.
Despite the challenges, Rivers remains hopeful about Disney’s future. He believes that the company can recover by embracing authentic storytelling that appeals to young men. He encourages Disney to tap into the wealth of talented writers and storytellers who can craft meaningful narratives.
Rivers sees this moment as an opportunity for Disney to not only improve its commercial prospects but also to contribute positively to American culture. He believes that by focusing on stories that resonate with men, Disney can reclaim its place as a leader in entertainment without further alienating its audience. The company has acknowledged its issues, and now it must take meaningful steps to address them.
