Disney spokesperson explains Mickey’s future after public domain

The imminent entry of the iconic pop culture character, Mickey Mousein the public domain has aroused considerable interest and discussion around the world.

Scheduled to take place in 2024, this legal milestone highlights a crucial point in the history of intellectual property, as the character will no longer be under Disney’s copyright.

However, it is important to understand that despite this transition, the corporation emphasizes that Mickey Mouse will continue to be protected as a registered trademark, maintaining its inherent identity associated with the company.

Spokesperson speaks out about Mickey Mouse’s public domain

Mickey Mouse in the 1928 film ‘Steamboat Willie’ – Image: Disney/Reproduction

“Since Mickey Mouse’s first appearance in the 1928 short film ‘Steamboat Willie,’ people have associated the character with authentic Disney stories, experiences and products. That will not change when the copyright for the ‘Steamboat Willie’ film expires,” a Disney spokesperson said.

The company spokesperson also emphasized the protection of more current creations and the presence of the animated mouse in Disney establishments and productions.

“More modern versions of Mickey will not be affected by the expiration of the copyright on ‘Steamboat Willie,’ and Mickey will continue to play a leading role as a global ambassador for the Walt Disney Company across our storytelling, theme park attractions and merchandise. Of course, we will continue to protect our rights in the most modern versions of Mickey Mouse and in other works that remain subject to copyright”, highlights the professional.

Although the character’s copyright is about to expire in 2024, the Disney will maintain its trademark and protect the mouse from unauthorized use that may cause confusion among consumers.

American law allows you to retain copyrights for 95 years, and Disney and other companies were able to extend that period by 20 years through efforts in Congress.

Beyond Mickey’s TiggerWinnie-the-Pooh‘ will also enter the public domain in the same year, and there are already plans for a film involving the character, called ‘Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey 2’, scheduled for release in February 2024.