Starting January 2024, Disney will lose the rights to Mickey Mouse, who has struggled for decades to retain exclusive ownership. The character premiered in the 1928 animated film Steamboat Willie, Walt Disney's first short film. Mickey Mouse is not just a cartoon character, but one of America's most iconic cultural icons. The modern version of Mickey will not be affected by the expiration of copyright, and all related products, stories and movies are still the property of Disney, adding, "We will continue to protect our rights"