Mickey and Minnie’s copyright expiration and public domain impact

It was the animation that founded the House of Mouse.

Historical Milestone:

The iconic 1928 short film, “Steamboat Willie,” marked a significant turning point in Disney’s history, introducing early non-speaking versions of Mickey and Minnie Mouse. 

Regarded as a cinematic milestone, the expiration of its copyright has made the characters and their early iterations available to the public in the US.

Impact of Copyright Expiry:

With the copyright expiration, the public gains access to the original versions of Mickey and Minnie, allowing creatives, including cartoonists, to rework and utilize these early renditions without requiring permission or incurring costs. 

This accessibility enables broader creative expression and utilization of these beloved characters.

Disney’s Copyright Warning:

While the early versions of Mickey and Minnie from “Steamboat Willie” are now in the public domain, Disney clarified that their more modern iterations are still protected by copyright. 

The company emphasized its commitment to safeguarding rights over these contemporary character versions and other copyrighted works.

Public Domain Expansion:

Beyond Mickey and Minnie, various works from 1928 have entered the public domain in the US on January 1, 2024. 

This expansion includes renowned films, books, music, and characters, such as Charlie Chaplin’s “The Circus,” AA Milne’s “The House at Pooh Corner” (introducing Tigger), Virginia Woolf’s “Orlando,” and DH Lawrence’s “Lady Chatterley’s Lover.”

Copyright Extension History:

Disney faced potential copyright expiration of its original cartoons previously, with expectations of the characters entering the public domain in 1984 and later in 2004. 

However, Congress passed extensions, granting additional 20-year terms each time, preserving Disney’s rights over these characters and works.

This milestone in the US public domain not only grants access to historic creations but also raises discussions on copyright extension and the balance between protecting intellectual property and promoting creative freedom.