The Walt Disney Company has extended Robert Iger's tenure as CEO and chairman through the expiration of his contract on June 30, 2016, under his existing contractual terms as CEO.

"For nearly eight years as chief executive officer, Bob Iger has proven he has the unique ability to drive creative and financial success at the world's preeminent entertainment company," said Orin Smith, independent lead director of the Disney board.

"Disney has hit new heights during Mr Iger's tenure, with total shareholder return of 193 per cent that dramatically exceeds the S&P 500s 54 per cent, and a market capitalisation that has risen to $113.7bn from $48.4bn when he became CEO in 2005.