Sleeping Beauty, Show White, Peter Pan, Captain Hook or Winnie-the-Pooh are already in the public domain. Which ones are the next?
Copyright is a legal protection for original works like books, music, and art. After a certain period, typically 70 years after the author’s death, these works enter the public domain.
This means that anyone can use, copy, distribute, or modify the work without needing permission from the original copyright holder. In simpler terms, it becomes free for everyone to use.
The public domain is a treasure trove of iconic characters, from classic superheroes to beloved literary figures.
Sleeping Beauty, Show White, Peter Pan, Captain Hook or Winnie-the-Pooh are already in the public domain. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse (the Steamboat Willie versions) entered the public domain in 2024.
This means fans, artists, and businesses can create new stories, merchandise, and adaptations without seeking permission from copyright holders.
Curious to learn which popular characters from books, movies, graphic novels, or comic books are entering the public domain in the coming years?
From the Visual Capitalist comes a handy infographic that lists popular fictional characters entering the public until 2038.
| Character | In the public domain |
|---|---|
| Popeye | 2025 |
| Pluto | 2026 |
| Betty Boop | 2026 |
| Goofy | 2028 |
| Donald Duck | 2029 |
| King Kong | 2029 |
| Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarves | 2032 |
| Superman | 2034 |
| Bugs Bunny | 2035 |
| Batman | 2035 |
| Joker | 2036 |
| Captain America | 2036 |
| wonder woman | 2037 |
| Moden Mickey Mouse | 2037 |
| Bambie | 2038 |
Mickey’s several companions will be entering the public domain in the next five years. Pluto will be free to use in 2026, Goofy in 2028, and Donald Duck in 2029.
💬 The copyright on many of DC Comics’ stars—like Superman, Batman, the Joker, and Wonder Woman—will expire in the 2030s.
Click on the infographic to see it enlarged. Make sure to visit the original post for more details.
Source: The Next Characters to Enter the Public Domain – Visual Capitalist
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