Walt Disney is set to invest $1 billion in OpenAI and has struck a licensing deal allowing the AI startup to use characters from its Star Wars, Pixar, and Marvel franchises in the Sora AI video generator. The three-year partnership, announced Thursday, signals a major step in Hollywood’s embrace of generative artificial intelligence.
Starting early next year, Sora and ChatGPT Images will be able to create videos featuring Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, and Mufasa. The agreement does not include talent likenesses or voices.
“Through this collaboration with OpenAI we will thoughtfully and responsibly extend the reach of our storytelling through generative AI, while respecting and protecting creators and their works,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said.
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The deal also allows Disney to showcase selected AI-generated videos on Disney+, tapping into the rising demand for short-form content. In addition, the company will receive warrants to acquire more equity in OpenAI and plans to deploy ChatGPT internally for employee use.
This move marks a shift from Disney’s earlier caution around AI. Earlier this year, Disney and Universal filed a copyright lawsuit against AI image generator Midjourney for using their iconic characters without permission.
The partnership comes despite earlier criticism from Creative Artists Agency, which had warned that AI technologies like Sora could expose artists to “significant risk” and questioned whether creators would be properly credited and compensated.