Summary
Betty Boop, Blondie, and other classic characters will enter the public domain in 2026 as their 95-year U.S. copyright terms expire. This change means creators can use these characters without needing permission or paying fees. Some works featuring these characters will no longer be restricted by copyright, but trademark protections may still apply.
Key Facts
- Betty Boop, Blondie, and Nancy Drew will enter the public domain in 2026.
- Works enter the public domain after a 95-year U.S. copyright period.
- In the public domain, creations can be freely used and adapted by others.
- Betty Boop initially appeared as a dog character in the 1930 cartoon "Dizzy Dishes."
- Blondie debuted in a comic strip in 1930 and later married the character Dagwood.
- Nine new Mickey Mouse cartoons will also become public domain.
- Trademark protections remain separate from copyright and can still apply to characters.
