The original Mickey Mouse from ‘Steamboat Willie’ by Disney now in the public domain

The 1928 short film marking the debut of Mickey Mouse, titled “Steamboat Willie,” entered the public domain on New Year’s Day, ushering in an era of availability for this iconic piece of Disney history. This film introduced audiences to the early, non-speaking versions of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, playing a pivotal role in Disney’s cultural impact and financial success.

Despite being a significant milestone, the Mickey portrayed in “Steamboat Willie” differs from the contemporary, amiable character. This version of Mickey, piloting a steamboat, exhibits a more menacing demeanor and draws inspiration from Charlie Chaplin. The film features Mickey crafting musical instruments from other animals and whistling the 1910 tune “Steamboat Bill.”

Directed by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, “Steamboat Willie” was the third cartoon produced featuring Mickey and Minnie but was the first to be released. Its success paved the way for Disney’s venture into feature films, leading to the creation of the acclaimed “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” in 1937.

The expiration of the copyright on “Steamboat Willie” allows artists and creators to utilize the rat-like, non-speaking version of Mickey portrayed in the film. However, Disney emphasized that more modern iterations of Mickey, as a global ambassador for the company, remain unaffected by the expiration. Disney retains a trademark on Mickey, preventing misleading uses that could confuse consumers.

The U.S. copyright law allows a 95-year term, and Mickey Mouse’s copyright had been extended multiple times, with the last extension in 2004. Although the early Disney cartoons were expected to enter the public domain in 1984, Congress granted two additional 20-year extensions. Despite this development, Disney remains committed to protecting its rights and preventing unauthorized uses of its iconic characters.

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