Mickey Mouse to Enter Public Domain in 2024
Disney to Continue Protecting Rights in Modern Versions, Other Iconic Characters Also Set for Public Domain
- Mickey Mouse, in his earliest form from the 1928 short 'Steamboat Willie', will enter the public domain in 2024.
- Disney still holds a separate trademark on Mickey as a corporate mascot and brand identifier, and will continue to protect its rights in the more modern versions of Mickey Mouse.
- Other characters like Minnie Mouse and Tigger from 'Pooh Corner' will also enter the public domain.
- Disney has stated it will work to safeguard against consumer confusion caused by unauthorized uses of its iconic characters.
- Other works entering the U.S. public domain include Charlie Chaplin’s film 'Circus', Virginia Woolf’s novel 'Orlando' and Eugene O’Neill’s play 'Long Day’s Journey into Night'.