Published
1 hour ago
on
June 17, 2024 Article/Editing: Graphics/Design:
See this visualization first on the Voronoi app.
The Next Characters to Enter the Public Domain
This was originally posted on our Voronoi app. Download the app for free on iOS or Android and discover incredible data-driven charts from a variety of trusted sources.
Copyright is a type of intellectual property right that protects authors’ original works, meaning that their art cannot be used without approval. However, copyright protections do not last forever—eventually, all original work will enter the public domain.
In this graphic, we visualize the popular characters that are set to enter the public domain in the next 15 years, using data compiled from several sources.
How Does a Character Enter the Public Domain?
The amount of time a given work is protected by copyright varies, but this window typically lasts 70 years after the author’s death or 95 years after publication. Once the copyright expires, the work enters the public domain, signaling time for anyone to enjoy and interact with them without legal repercussions.
Which Characters Will Have Their Copyrights Expire Next?
The Brothers Grimm version of Snow White has already had its copyright expire. However, Disney’s iconic Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs version will only enter public domain in 2032.
On January 1st, 2024, the Steamboat Willie versions of Mickey and Minnie Mouse entered public domain (and already, content creators are seizing the opportunity). The modern version of Mickey Mouse will follow suit in roughly 15 years.
Below is a list of popular characters that will be entering the public domain in coming years.
CharacterYear expected to enter the public domain Sleeping Beautyalready public domain Snow Whitealready public domain Pinocchioalready public domain Peter Panalready public domain Tinkerbellalready public domain Captain Hookalready public domain Winnie-the-Poohalready public domain Mickey Mouse (Steamboat Willie version)already public domain Minnie Mouse (Steamboat Willie version)already public domain Popeye2025 Pluto2026 Betty Boop2026 Goofy2028 Donald Duck2029 King Kong2029 Snow White and the Seven Dwarves (Disney version)2032 Superman2034 Bugs Bunny2035 Batman2035