Disney and OpenAI have announced a three-year licensing agreement that allows users to create videos featuring over 200 Disney characters using the Sora AI video platform. Disney will invest $1 billion in OpenAI and receive warrants for additional equity as part of the deal.
The agreement covers characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars franchises, including Mickey Mouse, Iron Man, Darth Vader, and many others. Users can generate short videos through text prompts starting in early 2026. The license includes animated characters, costumes, props, and environments, but excludes talent likenesses and voices.
Disney will also deploy ChatGPT for its employees and use OpenAI’s technology to build new tools and experiences for Disney+. Selected user-generated Sora videos will be available to stream on the platform.
The partnership comes after Disney sent cease and desist letters to several AI companies, including Character.AI and Google, over copyright infringement concerns. Disney CEO Bob Iger states the collaboration will extend storytelling reach while protecting creators’ rights.
OpenAI committed to implementing safety controls to prevent illegal or harmful content generation. Both companies emphasize their shared commitment to responsible AI use that respects creative industries and content owners’ rights.
The agreement requires definitive documentation, corporate approvals, and standard closing conditions before becoming final.
Sources: OpenAI Announcement, CNBC
