Creative GenerationVerified

Disney announced a three-year licensing agreement with OpenAI in December 2025, allowing users of OpenAI's Sora platform and ChatGPT Images to generate short fan-made videos and images featuring more than 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters. Selected fan-created videos will be streamed on Disney+.

Details

Under the deal, announced December 11, 2025, Sora will be able to generate short, user-prompted social videos drawing from over 200 characters, including costumes, props, vehicles, and iconic environments. The agreement explicitly excludes talent likenesses or voices. ChatGPT Images will also generate still images using the same licensed IP. Disney invested $1 billion in OpenAI as part of the agreement, and generation with licensed characters was expected to begin in early 2026. Disney also plans to use OpenAI APIs to build new products and experiences, including for Disney+.

Products affected

Sora (OpenAI)ChatGPT Images (OpenAI)Disney+

Sources & Evidence

Company Disclosure

Company DisclosureVerified

The Walt Disney Company And OpenAI Reach Landmark Agreement To Bring Beloved Characters From Across Disney's Brands To Sora

The Walt Disney Company·Dec 2025

https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/press-releases/the-walt-disney-company-and-openai-reach-landmark-agreement-to-bring-beloved-characters-from-across-disneys-brands-to-sora/

News Article

Disney to invest $1 billion in OpenAI, permit use of characters on AI video generator

ABC News·Dec 2025

https://abcnews.com/Business/disney-invest-1-billion-openai-permit-characters-ai/story?id=128312284

Other practices by Walt Disney Company

OtherDisney deployed a new internal business unit called the Office of Technology Enablement (OTE) in November 2024, tasked with coordinating the company's responsible adoption of AI and mixed reality across all business segments including film, television, and theme parks.OtherDisney uses AI across its theme parks to predict and manage crowd flow, reduce ride downtime through predictive maintenance, and personalize guest recommendations via the My Disney Experience app and MagicBand wearables. These systems operate continuously across Walt Disney World and other Disney Parks.ProductivityDisney deployed an internal AI chatbot called DisneyGPT to employees in late 2025, offering assistance with tasks such as creating IT support tickets, searching the company roster, and analyzing project financials. Disney also provides employees access to Microsoft Copilot and Amazon Q Developer.

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