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A looming controversy surrounding The Walt Disney Company may force Willow Bay to reconsider the location of her upcoming fundraiser for the International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF).
The event, scheduled for next month at Bay and Bob Iger’s Brentwood home, could be moved after Disney pulled late-night host Jimmy Kimmel off the air, sparking backlash across the media and journalism communities.
Credit: Disney
Iger Family Receives Backlash
The decision to suspend Kimmel, which was made by Iger along with Disney Entertainment chairman Dana Walden following the host’s on-air comments regarding Charlie Kirk’s murder, has created a ripple effect that now threatens to touch the Igers’ private residence. Sources indicate that the IWMF, a nonprofit dedicated to elevating female and non-binary journalists, is weighing whether holding its annual fundraiser at the power couple’s home is advisable given the public scrutiny.
The IWMF is known for its high-profile board, which includes CBS’ Norah O’Donnell, NBC News’ Andrea Mitchell, and ABC News’ Kerry Smith. The organization has received long-standing support from Bay and Iger, but insiders say the fallout from the Kimmel suspension is prompting a reassessment of the planned Brentwood location.
Bob Iger's Wife, Willow Bay, May Have to Move Her Free Speech Fundraiser https://t.co/m7bci3WjJ3
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) September 19, 2025
What Happens Next?
The fundraiser, a cornerstone of the IWMF’s annual calendar, draws some of the biggest names in broadcast journalism and serves as a key platform to raise awareness and funds for the organization’s mission to support and protect women and non-binary journalists worldwide. With the Kimmel controversy now dominating headlines, organizers are reportedly exploring alternate venues to avoid potential conflict or distraction from the event’s focus.
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While no official announcement has been made regarding a change in location, sources suggest that discussions are ongoing and that a final decision may be reached in the coming weeks. The situation underscores the complex intersection of corporate decisions, media controversies, and philanthropic activities in Hollywood’s high-profile circles.
As the dust settles around Disney’s handling of Kimmel’s suspension, all eyes will remain on how Bay and the IWMF navigate the public optics of the fundraiser and whether it will maintain its original Brentwood setting or seek a new venue to keep the focus on elevating women in media.
