OpenAI’s video platform Sora has gained access to some of entertainment’s most recognizable characters through a $1 billion deal with Disney. The licensing agreement spans three years and includes over 200 characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars franchises, enabling users to generate AI-powered short videos.
Disney announced Thursday that the partnership allows fans to create user-prompted social videos featuring beloved characters that can be shared across platforms. The agreement provides Sora with character rights while explicitly excluding any use of actor likenesses or voices, a distinction that addresses ongoing debates about AI’s impact on entertainment professionals.
The collaboration extends beyond character licensing into a broader business relationship. Disney will become a major customer of OpenAI’s technology offerings, utilizing AI tools for new product development and customer experiences while implementing ChatGPT across its workforce. This multifaceted approach demonstrates Disney’s comprehensive AI strategy.
Bob Iger, Disney’s chief executive, framed the partnership as representing a critical juncture for the industry. He emphasized that Disney would use the collaboration to responsibly extend its storytelling capabilities through generative AI while protecting creators and their work. This careful messaging acknowledges the sensitive nature of AI adoption in Hollywood.
Major Hollywood studios have generally avoided partnerships with AI companies, concerned about data usage and labor relations. OpenAI has pursued discussions with several studios about Sora’s potential. The platform’s September update introduced social features, allowing users to generate videos from text prompts, explore content from other users, and create realistic AI avatars that can be inserted into videos with appropriate permissions.