Disney Makes Historical $1 Billion AI Deal Which Allows Over 200 Characters on Generative Video Platform

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Making AI content based on popular themes is becoming incredibly simple – almost as easy as imagining it, or simply typing a request into a tool like Sora. On Thursday, Disney announced a groundbreaking agreement.

I’m absolutely thrilled to hear that Disney is investing a billion dollars into OpenAI! It’s going to be incredible – imagine being able to create your own videos using characters from Disney, Star Wars, Marvel, and Pixar! As a huge fan, the possibilities are just mind-blowing. Disney CEO Bob Iger said it’s all about innovation and finding new ways to tell stories, and I couldn’t agree more. This partnership feels like the start of something truly special and creative.

The fast development of artificial intelligence is a significant step for our industry. By working with OpenAI, we aim to expand its benefits carefully and ethically, always respecting the rights and creations of artists and content creators.

As part of a new agreement, Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Darth Vader, Ariel, and Iron Man—along with many others—will be available in Sora videos. The technology will allow users to create personalized videos featuring Disney-themed costumes, props, and backgrounds. However, the deal doesn’t include the use of actual character voices or the likeness of the actors who portray them. According to Disney CEO Bob Iger, this will give fans more creative and engaging ways to interact with their favorite Disney stories and characters.

Iger explained that combining Disney’s beloved stories and characters with OpenAI’s innovative technology will allow fans to experience creativity and imagination like never before.

For Sam Altman, CEO and co-founder of OpenAI, this partnership will broaden how people create and enjoy content, and it sets an example for successful collaboration between AI and media companies. He believes this agreement demonstrates how AI and creative industries can work together ethically, fostering innovation, valuing creativity, and helping content reach a wider audience.

Potential Disney AI Partnerships Previously Sparked Calls For Boycott

Some people are skeptical that Disney’s use of AI will lead to positive results. Following comments by CEO Bob Iger about discussing AI with various companies, Disney creator Dana Terrace publicly criticized the company’s leadership.

Terrance announced on X that he was canceling his Disney+ subscription. He declared he’d find ways to watch The Owl House illegally rather than support the company, and expressed strong disapproval of generative AI.

Terrance wasn’t the only one upset with Disney. Voice actor Alex Rochon posted online that by 2026, Disney+ was filled with low-quality, AI-generated content featuring characters like Mickey Mouse and Elsa, even including offensive language. Rochon explained that actors were refusing to work with Disney because the company was using their images and voices without permission.

Voice actress Maggie Elise expressed disappointment with Disney, stating that AI-generated content shouldn’t be considered art. She believes it devalues the work and history of true artists and creators.

Iger had previously hinted that Disney was planning to integrate AI into its operations. He explained to investors that AI would allow Disney+ to offer a more interactive experience, letting users both create and enjoy short-form content made by other fans.

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2025-12-11 19:16