(Credit: OpenAI)
OpenAI and Disney have signed a three-year content licensing deal that lets Sora users generate videos featuring 200+ Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters.
The deal protects OpenAI from IP lawsuits involving fictional Disney characters across Sora and ChatGPT. On Sora, users can view and share AI-generated videos, while on ChatGPT, they will be able to generate images. Select Sora-generated videos will also be streamed on Disney+.
Both AI generators are allowed to use the fictional characters' costumes, props, vehicles, and environments. However, "the agreement does not include any talent [human actors] likenesses or voices," Disney confirms.
Disney characters will come to Sora and ChatGPT in early 2026. Available characters include Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Lilo, Stitch, Ariel, Belle, Beast, Cinderella, Baymax, Simba, Mufasa, illustrated versions of the Avengers, as well as characters from movies like Encanto, Frozen, Inside Out, Moana, Monsters Inc., Toy Story, Up, Zootopia, and more.
As part of the deal, Disney will also invest $1 billion in OpenAI and will use its API to build new products, tools, and experiences, while also deploying ChatGPT to its employees.
This is a preliminary announcement, and "the transaction is subject to the negotiation of definitive agreements, required corporate and board approvals, and customary closing conditions," both companies said. They also affirmed their commitment to "responsible use of AI that protects user safety and the rights of creators."
Hollywood agents were upset when Sora 2 came out earlier this year. The tool generates hyper-realistic videos of characters and movie scenes, and also runs a TikTok-like vertical feed. Agencies wanted OpenAI to seek permission from their clients before using their likenesses in videos, but OpenAI had adopted an opt-out policy, which, as Deadline notes, meant that IP was usable on the app until a removal request was made.
While talent agencies like WME, which represents Ben Affleck, Christian Bale, Matt Damon, Denzel Washington, Jennifer Garner, and others, have opted out, Disney is opting in for its fictional characters.