The Impact of Mickey Mouse Copyright Expiration

Mickey Mouse's Copyright Expiration

In January 2024, the copyright on Steamboat Willie, the first story featuring Mickey Mouse, expired, leading to discussions about the character entering the public domain.

Mickey Mouse clutching Donald Duck in his hand

The expiration of the copyright raises questions about the future use of Mickey Mouse in creative works, but the situation is more complex than it seems.

Mickey Mouse as the Sorcerer's Apprentice directing a broom in Fantasia

The copyright expiration does not mean Disney will lose all rights and trademark on Mickey Mouse, complicating the character's copyright status.

Two versions of Mickey Mouse looking at the camera in Prince and the Pauper

Mickey Mouse's Original Story and Copyright Law

Steamboat Willie, released in 1928, marked Mickey Mouse's first appearance and the expiration of its copyright in 2024.

Mickey Mouse performing on stage for Disney characters in the House of Mouse

US copyright law stipulates that character rights expire 95 years after the publication of the original work, posing potential copyright challenges for other iconic Disney characters.

Mickey Mouse is offering Pluto a treat.

Disney has faced previous challenges with copyright expiration and has taken measures to protect Mickey Mouse's copyright through legislative intervention.

Mickey conjures up a spell in Fantasia.

Trademark Protection and Future of Mickey Mouse

The expiration of the Steamboat Willie copyright does not affect other films featuring Mickey Mouse or the trademark on the character.

Mickey Mouse as he appears in Infestation 88, with a horror-oriented version of his Steamboat Willie look.

Trademark protection allows Disney to maintain ownership of Mickey Mouse, ensuring control over the character's use in creative works.

Despite the copyright expiration, Disney's trademark protection ensures continued control over the character's use, presenting limitations on adaptations of Steamboat Willie.