
"Mickey Mouse's Public Domain Debut Sparks Debate and Dark Reimaginings"
Disney has withdrawn a copyright claim against a YouTube video by Brock Baker featuring the 1928 cartoon "Steamboat Willie," which recently entered the public domain. Baker's remixed version with his own comedic audio was initially demonetized and restricted, but after disputing the claim, the video is now monetizable and accessible worldwide. This retraction by Disney may signal recognition that "Steamboat Willie" and its depiction of Mickey Mouse are now free for public use, clarifying the legal landscape for creators using the iconic character in new works.













