Betty Boop Enters the Public Domain: A Gateway to Creative Freedom or a Legal Minefield?
In 1930, Betty Boop burst onto the scene as a cultural icon, capturing the spirit of innovation, humor, and artistic playfulness. Nearly a century later, in 2026, the original 1930 version of Betty Boop has officially entered the public domain. This means that the copyright protecting this early version has expired, opening the door for creators, designers, and digital artists to use the character freely—without paying licensing fees or seeking permission from the original rights holders.
For modern creators, this is a rare and exciting opportunity: an iconic character is now legally available to inspire new stories, animations, artworks, and products.
But does public domain mean complete freedom?
Not quite. While the character itself can now be used, certain legal boundaries remain. Here’s what you need to know:
- Trademarks: The name “Betty Boop” and more recent logos or stylized versions are still protected as registered trademarks. Using them for commercial purposes—such as on clothing, toys, or perfumes—could expose you to legal action if it gives the impression of an official affiliation with the rights holders.
- Later adaptations: Only the 1930 version of Betty Boop is in the public domain. Any visual changes, added features, or updated character traits created in subsequent years remain under copyright protection. Using these elements without permission could constitute infringement.
This path is not unique to Betty Boop. Other legendary characters like Popeye, Felix the Cat, and even the original Mickey Mouse in Steamboat Willie have gradually entered the public domain. Each of these cases provides a blueprint for creators looking to harness the cultural power of these icons while navigating the boundaries of intellectual property law.
The creative opportunity is real—but careful navigation is key
Public domain allows artists to reimagine, remix, and reinvent classic characters. It’s a license to innovate, not simply to copy. The challenge lies in respecting existing trademarks, which companies continue to defend rigorously as a safeguard for their brand identity and market value.
Real-world legal lessons
Recent court cases illustrate the fine line between legal use and infringement. In 2025, Morgan & Morgan sued Disney, asserting their right to use scenes from Steamboat Willie in advertising based on the film’s public domain status. Meanwhile, Sator faced legal action from Disney for selling products that suggested an official connection to Mickey Mouse, highlighting how consumer confusion is a key concern in trademark law.
These cases show the crucial distinction between expired copyrights—which allow creative reuse—and active trademarks, which exist to prevent misleading associations or implied endorsements.
Practical guidance for creators
Entering the public domain is not just the “end” of old rights—it’s the start of a new creative era. To make the most of this opportunity while staying on the right side of the law:
- Stick to the originals: Use only the versions of characters that have actually entered the public domain. Avoid traits, colors, or designs introduced in later adaptations.
- Avoid implying official affiliation: Do not use the character’s name or likeness in a way that suggests an endorsement, partnership, or official connection.
- Innovate, don’t replicate: Make the character part of a new creative work—whether a comic, animation, digital art, or merchandise—rather than simply copying or reselling the original content.
At its heart, intellectual property law is designed to protect both creators and consumers, ensuring that imagination thrives while preventing the misuse of another party’s brand identity. For artists, designers, and storytellers, public domain is less a legal loophole and more a launchpad for creativity.
Written by our Attorney Bara’a Al-Jayousi– Jordan Office
