Disney Invests $1bn in OpenAI to Bring Beloved Characters to ChatGPT and Sora
Disney has struck a $1bn (£740m) deal with OpenAI, giving the tech company access to its iconic characters for use in the chatbot ChatGPT and video-generation tool Sora. The agreement marks the first time a major studio has licensed parts of its catalogue to OpenAI, opening new opportunities for fans to generate and share images and videos of over 200 characters from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars franchises.
Characters available will include Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Moana, Zootopia’s Judy Hopps, Star Wars’ Luke Skywalker, and Marvel’s Deadpool. However, Disney clarified that the deal does not include any talent likenesses or voices.
Disney CEO Bob Iger said the collaboration represents a “thoughtful and responsible” way to extend the reach of the company’s storytelling amid rapid advances in artificial intelligence. OpenAI plans to roll out the new capabilities in early 2026.
The move comes as AI-generated content sparks growing debate, including concerns over deepfakes and offensive depictions of public figures. OpenAI previously paused the creation of videos of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. after controversial clips circulated online.
Legal experts say Disney’s deal signals a shift toward collaborative licensing between rights holders and AI developers, allowing companies to leverage content safely while addressing copyright and ethical concerns.
The announcement coincides with Disney sending Google a cease-and-desist letter over alleged copyright infringement, underscoring the complex landscape of AI, creativity, and intellectual property.
Fans can now look forward to generating imaginative Disney content in ChatGPT and Sora, but questions remain over safeguards and responsible use of the technology.
