Disney Sued Over Mickey Mouse Public Domain Gray Area: What Does It Mean for Intellectual Property?

Breaking News: Disney Sued Over Mickey Mouse Public Domain Limitations The Walt Disney Company has found itself in a lawsuit after enforcing its intellectual property rights to Steamboat Willie characters against two companies seeking to utilize Mickey Mouse for marketing and retail purposes. According to reports, Morgan Morgan, a U.S.-based personal injury law firm, attempted to use Steamboat Willie in a commercial, while jewelry company Satéur attempted to pass off merchandise with the character as official. Timeline of Events September 2024: Mickey Mouse's appearance in Steamboat Willie becomes public domain. January 2025: Morgan Morgan attempts to use Steamboat Willie in a commercial, prompting Disney resistance. February 2025: Satéur begins selling merchandise featuring Steamboat Willie characters without official permission. Immediate Impact and Response Disney maintains that despite the short being public domain, competitors cannot infringe on trademarks protecting its brands. The company argues that various representations of Mickey Mouse are still under copyright. Morgan Morgan and Satéur have not publicly commented on the lawsuit. Background Context The public domain status of Steamboat Willie has led to numerous parodies and adaptations, including horror films like Screamboat. However, Disney's stance suggests a nuanced understanding of intellectual property law, highlighting the complexities surrounding public domain and trademark rights. What Happens Next The lawsuit will likely shed light on the boundaries between public domain and trademark protection in the entertainment industry. As the case unfolds, it may have significant implications for companies seeking to utilize iconic characters like Mickey Mouse. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Gizmodo reporting.*