The Walt Disney Company and OpenAI have announced a three-year licensing agreement that will allow OpenAI’s Sora platform to generate short, user-prompted social videos featuring over 200 characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars. These videos can be viewed and shared by fans, with selected content also becoming available for streaming on Disney+.
In addition to the licensing deal, Disney will become a significant customer of OpenAI by utilizing its APIs to develop new products and experiences for platforms such as Disney+, and by deploying ChatGPT internally for its employees. As part of the agreement, Disney will invest $1 billion in OpenAI and receive warrants to purchase additional equity.
The companies stated their commitment to responsible AI use, focusing on user safety and creator rights. The agreement emphasizes human-centered AI development that supports creative industries while expanding storytelling possibilities. Both organizations plan to maintain controls to prevent illegal or harmful content generation and respect the rights of individuals regarding voice and likeness usage.
Disney CEO Robert A. Iger said, “Technological innovation has continually shaped the evolution of entertainment, bringing with it new ways to create and share great stories with the world. The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence marks an important moment for our industry, and 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. Bringing together Disney’s iconic stories and characters with OpenAI’s groundbreaking technology puts imagination and creativity directly into the hands of Disney fans in ways we’ve never seen before, giving them richer and more personal ways to connect with the Disney characters and stories they love.”
Sam Altman, co-founder and CEO of OpenAI, added: “Disney is the global gold standard for storytelling, and we’re excited to partner to allow Sora and ChatGPT Images to expand the way people create and experience great content. This agreement shows how AI companies and creative leaders can work together responsibly to promote innovation that benefits society, respect the importance of creativity, and help works reach vast new audiences.”
Fans will be able to watch curated selections of Sora-generated videos on Disney+, with both companies collaborating on using OpenAI models for new subscriber experiences. Sora-initiated fan videos featuring multi-brand licensed characters are expected in early 2026.
Characters available include Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Lilo & Stitch, Ariel from The Little Mermaid, Belle from Beauty & the Beast, Simba from The Lion King; as well as Marvel figures like Black Panther, Iron Man; Lucasfilm icons such as Darth Vader; among others.
OpenAI has pledged ongoing efforts in trust-and-safety measures including age-appropriate policies across its services.
The transaction is subject to negotiation of definitive agreements as well as corporate approvals.
Disney reported annual revenue of $94.4 billion in Fiscal Year 2025.
