- OpenAI partners with Disney in a landmark three-year licensing deal for Sora.
- Over 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters will be available for AI-generated videos.
- Fan-created Sora videos with Disney characters will roll out in early 2026.
OpenAI partners with Disney in a major licensing agreement that will allow users to generate short-form AI videos featuring more than 200 beloved characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars. The Walt Disney Company and OpenAI jointly announced the partnership, which positions Disney as the first significant content licensing partner for OpenAI’s generative AI video platform, Sora.
OpenAI partners with Disney on Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar characters
According to the announcement, Sora and ChatGPT Images will gain access to over 200 officially licensed characters, environments, costumes, props, and vehicles from Disney’s portfolio. This includes animated favorites, superheroes, masked icons, and legendary creatures drawn from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars.
OpenAI and The Walt Disney Company confirmed that users will be able to create short‑form videos and images from text prompts which allows fans new ways to generate and share content inspired by their favorite franchises. However, the companies clarified that the deal does not grant rights to replicate talent likenesses or character voices, with Disney stressing that misuse of voice or likeness rights could lead to legal restrictions.
A three-year licensing agreement
As part of the three‑year licensing deal, Disney will curate a selection of fan‑created Sora videos for streaming on Disney+, allowing unique, user‑driven content to reach a wider audience. This represents one of the first major efforts by an entertainment platform to showcase AI‑generated, fan‑inspired content at scale.
Disney invests $1 billion in OpenAI
In addition to the licensing arrangement, Disney has agreed to make a $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI. The company will also receive warrants to purchase additional equity over time.
Disney stated that it plans to integrate OpenAI’s APIs and tools throughout its operations. This includes developing new digital products and enhancing user experiences across its media platforms, most notably Disney+. Disney employees will also gain access to ChatGPT to support internal workflows and creative development.
Commitment to safety and responsible AI
Both companies reaffirmed their commitment to responsible AI use. They stated that the partnership includes safeguards to prevent the creation of harmful or illegal content. OpenAI and Disney highlighted that user rights, creator protections, and human-centered AI development remain central to the collaboration.
Availability timeline
OpenAI confirmed that Sora and ChatGPT Images will begin supporting Disney’s multi-brand licensed characters in early 2026. More details about supported characters, usage guidelines, and platform updates are expected as the release nears.
