Laura Lipschutz of Flaster Greenberg. Courtesy photo Disney's Public Domain Mickey Mouse Trap
Earlier this year, media and news outlets widely reported that Mickey Mouse had entered the "public domain" because Disney's copyright in the cartoon "Steamboat Willie" expired on Jan. 1, 2024. What implications does the expiration of this copyright registration actually have and may we all start using Mickey to promote our products and services?
April 15, 2024 at 10:50 AM
6 minute read
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Perhaps you've heard of Mickey Mouse—one of the most lovable and recognizable characters in animation history. Similarly, Mickey's "owner," The Walt Disney Co., is undoubtedly among the most famous and powerful brand owners in the world, known for its rigorous protection and enforcement of its intellectual property rights. Earlier this year, media and news outlets widely reported that Mickey Mouse had entered the "public domain" because Disney's copyright in the cartoon "Steamboat Willie" expired on Jan. 1, 2024. What implications does the expiration of this copyright registration actually have and may we all start using Mickey to promote our products and services?
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