These Classic Characters Are Losing Copyright Protection. They May Never Be the Same.
These Classic Characters Are Losing Copyright Protection. They May Never Be the Same.
What could happen to the original version of Mickey Mouse and others after they entered the public domain on Jan. 1? Hint: think Winnie the Pooh wielding a sledgehammer.
If you’re the creative type and you’re struggling to come up with your next idea, do not fear: some big works, including the original version of Mickey Mouse, are entering the public domain on Jan. 1 in the United States.
And if, on the other hand, you prefer your Disney characters to be cute, cuddly and never-changing, well … you might want to stop reading.
In 2024, thousands of copyrighted works published in 1928 are entering the public domain, after their 95-year term expires.
. . .
The New York Times reached out to some writers, producers and directors to give you a taste of what might be unleashed in this strange new world.
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Disney will simply claim that Steamboat Willie Mickey Mouse is a trademark as they have been using it in their properties for the last few years. So I predict that Disney will sue anyone trying to use it so that they can retain ownership.