Universal Orlando Jumps In Public Domain, Grabs Mickey Mouse

Posted by: Brittni Ward January 2, 2024 1 Comment

Credit: Universal/Disney

Universal Orlando and Disney World are two of the most iconic and popular theme park destinations in the world, each offering a unique and magical experience for guests of all ages. Both are located in Orlando, Florida. These two theme parks have captivated guests for decades, and they continue to evolve and expand to provide new and exciting adventures.

Credit: Universal Studios, Disney, Canva

Disney World Resort is known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” bringing thousands of guests daily to their four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Disney World is also known for popular characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Cinderella, Elsa, and several other characters guests may spot while at Disney parks.

At Universal Orlando, you can choose to go to either Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure. These are two main theme parks they are home to a wide range of attractions, shows, and dining options that cater to all interests. Universal Orlando is home to a water park called Volcano Bay, and is currently in the midst of building Epic Universe, an all-new theme park that is set to open in 2025.

Credit: Universal Studios

While Disney and Universal are both beloved for different things, they are absolutely competitors and Universal recently threw a little shade at Disney once again, this time over Mickey Mouse. Mickey Mouse recently went into the public domain, which means that others can use Steamboat Willie’s likeness. Jumping in on the trend, Universal Orlando hilariously tweeted about renaming the SS Olive to Steamboat Wimpy now.

So, can we rename this Steamboat Wimpy now? pic.twitter.com/56H1XnH13v

— Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) January 2, 2024

Mickey Mouse going into the public domain means that anyone, including individuals, artists, and creators, could now use Mickey Mouse as a character in their works as long as he resembled his 1928 incarnation. In 1928, Mickey Mouse was first seen in Steamboat Willie. Mickey Mouse was created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks. Mickey Mouse quickly became synonymous with the name Disney and went on to become one of the most beloved and enduring fictional characters ever created.