The Walt Disney Company has announced a major push into artificial intelligence, revealing a $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI as part of a new three-year licensing agreement that will bring hundreds of Disney-owned characters to the Sora video-generation platform.
The partnership marks one of Disney’s most significant moves yet into generative AI, allowing users of OpenAI’s Sora and ChatGPT Images to legally create videos and images featuring Disney’s extensive intellectual property—spanning Disney Animation, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars.
Disney Characters Coming to Sora in 2026
Beginning next year, users will be able to make AI-generated content featuring more than 200 iconic characters, including Mickey Mouse, Ariel, Cinderella, Iron Man and Darth Vader.
Disney clarified that the agreement covers its character IP only and does not authorize the use of talent likenesses or voices.
Disney CEO Bob Iger said the collaboration reflects a strategic moment for the entertainment industry as AI rapidly transforms content creation.
“This is an important moment for our industry,” Iger said. “Through this collaboration with OpenAI, we will extend the reach of our storytelling in a thoughtful and responsible way, while protecting creators and their works.”
A Major Commercial Alliance
As part of the deal, Disney will receive warrants to purchase additional OpenAI equity and will also adopt ChatGPT internally, using OpenAI’s technology to build new creative tools and workflows for employees.
The collaboration positions Disney as a major OpenAI customer, joining the wave of global corporations embracing generative AI for content development, automation and innovation.
Controversy Paved the Way
Sora’s release earlier this year sparked widespread debate after users produced videos of brand-owned characters without permission.
The Motion Picture Association had urged OpenAI to curb such infringements, and Disney was among the companies engaged in legal battles to protect its intellectual property—suing Midjourney and sending cease-and-desist notices to other AI startups.
This new partnership signals a notable shift in strategy: Disney appears ready to embrace AI platforms, provided they operate under strict licensing agreements that safeguard creators.
OpenAI’s Commitments
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said the company will enforce robust protections to prevent misuse and ensure safety across its platforms.
“Disney sets the global standard for storytelling,” Altman said. “We’re excited to partner with them to expand how people create and experience great content.”
OpenAI has committed to maintaining granular controls over character usage and preventing illegal or harmful content from being generated.
What Users Can Expect
Sora users will gain access to a vast library of Disney-owned characters.
ChatGPT Images will also support prompts using these characters.
Curated Sora videos will be featured on Disney+ as part of the rollout.
The integration of AI tools into Disney’s internal operations will begin soon.
A Turning Point for Media and AI
Disney’s investment represents one of the entertainment industry’s clearest indications that AI will play a central role in future storytelling, content development and fan engagement.
