Disney Faces Lawsuits Over Mickey Mouse Public Domain Rights
TL;DR Summary
Disney is suing a law firm over its use of the earliest depiction of Mickey Mouse from 1928's 'Steamboat Willie,' which entered the public domain in 2024. The lawsuit questions whether Disney can still enforce rights over this version of Mickey Mouse, despite copyright expiration, due to trademarks and ongoing licensing. Disney's aggressive IP enforcement continues amid companies exploiting the character in various ways.
- Disney Sued After Enforcing Rights to Mickey Mouse in the Public Domain The Hollywood Reporter
- Morgan & Morgan takes Disney to court over rights to feature ‘Steamboat Willie’ in law firm ads WKMG
- Disney sued by law firm Morgan & Morgan over 'Steamboat Willie' ad Reuters
- A Caravan of Whatnots The Daily Cartoonist
- Disney Is Getting Sued Over Just How Much Mickey Mouse Counts as Public Domain Gizmodo
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