Walter Disney with a stuffed animal he created, Mickey Mouse (Photo: Facebook / The Walt Disney Family Museum @WDFMuseum)
From January 1, 2024 Mickey Mousethe iconic mouse that embodies the essence of American and global pop culture becomes part of the Public domain. This significant measure implies that any person can use works related to the character without making any payments or obtaining permission Disneythe company that previously held the exclusive rights.
From Infobae
However, it should be noted that this release of rights does not mean the full availability of the character. Disney still maintains control over modern versions of Mickey Mouse, with his colors and his iconic voice. In this context, Steamboat Willie (1928), the first short film that presented the Mouse in its classic black and white style, will be the free version exclusively in the United States.
Despite this opening, the company assures this Mickey Mouse will continue to play a critical role in the company's storytelling, theme park attractions and merchandise. The released version will not affect the character's leading position in the brand and remains its emblematic figure.
This event is no stranger to the entertainment industry, as in 2022 the original version of Winnie Pooh It has also been made publicly available, allowing for a wide range of creative uses for the beloved bear. This even led to the production of films like Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey (Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey), a horror parody that transforms the delicate bear and his friend Piglet into a vengeful figure. Both become unusual murderers who seek revenge on their owner Christopher Robin.
More details can be found here