The Walt Disney Company has entered into a definitive three-year agreement with OpenAI, marking a significant strategic alignment between the global entertainment leader and the artificial intelligence pioneer. As part of the multi-faceted deal, Disney will make a $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI and receive warrants for additional equity, positioning the company as a major stakeholder and the first primary content licensing partner for OpenAI’s Sora video-generation platform.

Under the terms of the agreement, users of OpenAI’s Sora and ChatGPT Images will be granted authorized access to a library of over 200 animated characters, props, and environments from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars. This licensing enables the generation of short-form, fan-inspired social videos. Notably, the agreement excludes talent likenesses and voices, focusing strictly on character IP. Additionally, a curated selection of this user-generated content is expected to be featured on the Disney+ streaming service beginning in early 2026.

Beyond consumer-facing content, Disney will become a major enterprise customer of OpenAI. The company plans to deploy ChatGPT across its global workforce and utilize OpenAI’s APIs to develop new internal tools, products, and digital experiences for its various business segments, including the enhancement of the Disney+ platform.

Both organizations emphasized a shared commitment to the “responsible use of AI.” The partnership outlines specific guardrails designed to protect the rights of creators and ensure user safety. This includes the implementation of age-appropriate policies, robust content moderation to prevent harmful outputs, and technical measures to uphold the integrity of Disney’s intellectual property within generative environments.

The Walt Disney Company is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise. Its segments include Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From iconic animation and cinematic franchises to world-class theme parks, Disney continues to lead the global media landscape through storytelling, innovation, and its expansive portfolio of intellectual property.

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