Mickey Mouse, the beloved cartoon character that has captured the hearts of millions around the world, has been a symbol of the Walt Disney Company for almost a century.
However, on January 1, 2024, an early version of Mickey Mouse from the 1928 short film "Steamboat Willie" will enter the public domain for the first time.
Anyone can use and adapt this version of Mickey without needing permission or paying royalties to Disney. This marks a significant milestone in the history of one of the most iconic characters in American pop culture.
Early Version of Mickey Mouse
The early version of Mickey Mouse that will enter the public domain in 2024 is the one featured in the 1928 short film "Steamboat Willie."
This was the first animated film to feature synchronized sound and was a huge success, launching Mickey Mouse into stardom. The film was also the first appearance of Minnie Mouse and Pete, who would become recurring characters in the Mickey Mouse universe.
At the time, Mickey Mouse was not the lovable, cheerful character that we know today.
He was mischievous and sometimes even mean, often getting into trouble and causing chaos.
This early version of Mickey had a more rodent-like appearance with a longer snout and a tail. He also lacked the iconic white gloves and oversized shoes that have become synonymous with the character.
Mickey Mouse's Copyright Status
The reason why the early version of Mickey Mouse from "Steamboat Willie" will enter the public domain in 2024 is due to changes in copyright law.
In the US, copyright protection lasts for 95 years from the date of publication, after which the work enters the public domain.
This means that anyone can use, adapt, and distribute the work without needing permission or paying royalties.
When Congress last updated copyright law in 1998, they extended the copyright term to 95 years from the date of publication for works created after January 1, 1978.
This means that any works published before 1923 are already in the public domain, while those published between 1923 and 1977 will enter the public domain in phases.
The early version of Mickey Mouse from "Steamboat Willie" fell under this category and entered the public domain on January 1, 2024.
Modern Mickey Mouse still has been protected by the copyright and cannot be used without permission
However, there is one remarkable thing that people should never miss.
Although the early version of Mickey Mouse is now in the public domain, there are some limitations, that may leave people sued if not following the rule.
A Disney spokesperson claimed that: "More modern versions of Mickey will remain unaffected by the expiration of the Steamboat Willie copyright, and Mickey will continue to play a leading role as a global ambassador for the Walt Disney Company in our storytelling, theme park attractions, and merchandise."
This means that the current version of Mickey Mouse, with his white gloves and oversized shoes, will still be protected by copyright and cannot be used without permission.
“Whatever you do, to be protected against copyright infringement claims … you really have to be making new stuff and be sure you are basing it on Steamboat Willie,” she said.
Additionally, while the early version of Mickey Mouse may be in the public domain, certain elements of the character are still protected by trademark law.
This includes his name, likeness, and distinctive features like his ears and tail. This means that while anyone can use and adapt the early version of Mickey, they cannot copy elements of the more modern Mickey Mouse without infringing on Disney's trademarks.
