The version known as “Steamboat Willie”, starring the iconic mouse, will be free of licenses.
Starting January 1, 2024, Mickey Mouse, the iconic mouse that embodies the essence of American and global pop culture, will enter the public domain. This momentous measure implies that any individual can use works related to the character without incurring payments or requesting permission from disneythe company that until now had the exclusive rights.
It should be noted that this release of rights does not imply the total availability of the character. Disney still maintains control over modern versions of Mickey Mouse, with his colors and 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 that Mickey Mouse will continue to play a crucial role in the company’s storytelling, theme park attractions and merchandise. The released version will not affect the leading position of the character in the brand, remaining his emblematic figure.
Other copyright release cases
This event is no stranger to the entertainment industry, since, in 2022, the original version of Winnie the Pooh It was also entered into the public domain, 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 tender bear into a vengeful character with his friend Piglet. Both become unusual murderers who seek revenge against their owner, Christopher Robin.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
