OpenAI and The Walt Disney Company have entered a landmark three-year licensing partnership that will bring Disney’s most iconic characters and worlds to Sora, OpenAI’s short-form generative AI video platform. The agreement makes Disney the first major content licensing partner for Sora and marks a significant step in blending AI innovation with storytelling.
As part of the deal, Sora will gain access to a library of more than 200 animated, masked, and creature characters from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. Fans will be able to generate short, shareable videos inspired by these characters-along with associated costumes, props, vehicles, and environments. Similarly, ChatGPT Images will be able to generate fully-formed visuals using the same licensed universe. Notably, the agreement excludes talent likenesses and celebrity voices.
The collaboration extends beyond content licensing. Disney will also become a major OpenAI customer, deploying its APIs to build new digital tools, products, and experiences, including innovations for Disney+. In addition, Disney will invest $1 billion in OpenAI and obtain warrants for future equity.
Both companies emphasised a shared commitment to responsible AI use-protecting creators’ rights, maintaining user safety, and enabling human-centered innovation. Pending final approvals and closing conditions, the partnership aims to start enabling fan-generated videos featuring Disney’s multi-brand character lineup by early 2026.
Characters available for fan creations will span beloved universes-from Mickey and Minnie Mouse to Elsa, Moana, Simba, Buzz Lightyear, Iron Man, Groot, Yoda, and more-unlocking new creative possibilities for millions of Disney fans worldwide.
