December 13, 2025 — ZenX News Desk
A global union representing creative professionals has warned that a major licensing agreement between Disney and OpenAI has sparked serious concern among artists and media workers. The reported $1bn deal will allow Disney-owned characters to be used within OpenAI’s chatbot ChatGPT and its AI video tool, Sora.
Under the agreement, users will be able to create and share AI-generated images and videos featuring more than 200 characters from Disney’s vast portfolio, including Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars franchises. This makes Disney the first major Hollywood studio to formally license its content to OpenAI.
Sag-Aftra, which represents around 170,000 performers worldwide, said both companies had assured the union that the deal does not permit the use of real actors’ faces, voices or likenesses. Despite this, the union says fears remain about the broader impact of AI on human creativity.
Union leaders argue that creatives are uneasy about their work being absorbed into AI systems, even indirectly, warning that unchecked use of artificial intelligence could undermine original artistic labour.
The announcement comes at a time when the entertainment industry is already facing growing tension over AI adoption. OpenAI has been under increasing scrutiny as its technology advances rapidly, while Hollywood unions continue to push for stronger safeguards.
Disney confirmed that although iconic characters such as Mickey Mouse, Luke Skywalker and Deadpool are included, the agreement excludes voice performances and talent likenesses. Disney CEO Bob Iger described the collaboration as a “significant moment” and said the company plans to expand its storytelling responsibly through AI.
The tools are expected to become available to users in early 2026.
Meanwhile, concerns around AI misuse persist. OpenAI has previously limited Sora’s capabilities after its technology was used to generate controversial and offensive deepfake videos of well-known public figures, prompting public backlash and calls for stricter controls.
Entertainment unions, including Equity, say the Disney–OpenAI deal highlights the urgent need to protect performers’ rights, warning that creative professionals should not lose control over work that forms the foundation of lucrative AI partnerships.
Based on reports from international media