Wedoany.com Report-Dec.12, The Walt Disney Company and OpenAI have entered a three-year licensing agreement that makes Disney the first major content partner for Sora, OpenAI's generative AI video platform, and ChatGPT Images.

Announced on 11 December 2025, the partnership allows users to create short, prompt-based social videos and still images featuring more than 200 licensed animated characters, costumes, props, vehicles and environments from Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars franchises. The licensed assets include Mickey Mouse, Ariel, Simba, Baymax, Iron Man, Groot, Darth Vader, Yoda and many others. Talent likenesses and voices are not included.

Fans will be able to view curated Sora-generated videos on Disney+ and use the tools to produce their own content starting in early 2026.

As part of the broader collaboration, Disney will become a significant customer of OpenAI's enterprise APIs to develop new products and experiences, including on Disney+, and will deploy ChatGPT internally. Disney is also making a US$1 billion equity investment in OpenAI and receiving warrants for additional shares.

Both companies emphasized responsible AI deployment. OpenAI has committed to maintaining strong safety measures, age-appropriate restrictions and controls against illegal or harmful content, while protecting creator and individual rights.

Robert A. Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, said: "Technological innovation has continually shaped the evolution of entertainment, bringing with it new ways to create and share great stories with the world. The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence marks an important moment for our industry, and through this collaboration with OpenAI we will thoughtfully and responsibly extend the reach of our storytelling through generative AI, while respecting and protecting creators and their works. Bringing together Disney’s iconic stories and characters with OpenAI’s groundbreaking technology puts imagination and creativity directly into the hands of Disney fans in ways we’ve never seen before, giving them richer and more personal ways to connect with the Disney characters and stories they love."

Sam Altman, Co-founder and CEO of OpenAI, said: "Disney is the global gold standard for storytelling, and we're excited to partner to allow Sora and ChatGPT Images to expand the way people create and experience great content. This agreement shows how AI companies and creative leaders can work together responsibly to promote innovation that benefits society, respect the importance of creativity, and help works reach vast new audiences."

The transaction remains subject to final agreements, corporate approvals and customary closing conditions.