Disney to Invest $1 Billion in OpenAI, Becomes First Major Partner for Sora

• Disney to invest $1Billion in OpenAI
• Licenses 200+ iconic characters to Sora and ChatGPT Images
• Partnership enables AI-driven storytelling and fan-created videos

The Walt Disney Company is making a bold move into artificial intelligence with a landmark $1 billion investment in OpenAI and a long-term content partnership that brings Disney’s vast character library to OpenAI’s creative tools. With this three-year agreement, Disney becomes the first major entertainment company to license its iconic characters for use on Sora and ChatGPT Images, opening the door to AI-powered storytelling experiences for millions of fans.

Under the deal, Sora will be able to generate short, user-guided videos featuring more than 200 animated and illustrated characters from Disney’s most popular worlds including Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars, and classic Disney films. Fans will be able to create and share scenes featuring familiar costumes, locations, vehicles, and props. The agreement allows only character IP, no real talent likenesses or voices are included.

ChatGPT Images will also gain access to the same character library, letting users instantly generate Disney-themed images from simple text prompts. Curated Sora-made videos will appear on Disney+, and both companies will work together on new AI-powered features for subscribers.

Disney will also use OpenAI’s technology internally, integrating APIs into products across the company and deploying ChatGPT tools for employees.

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As part of the financial arrangement, Disney will buy $1 billion in OpenAI equity and receive warrants giving it the option to buy more shares later. The companies emphasized a shared commitment to “responsible AI,” including protections for creators, intellectual property, and user safety.

New Sora and ChatGPT Images experiences featuring Disney characters are expected to roll out in early 2026.

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