Now thatSteamboat Williesversion ofMickey Mouseis in the public domain, Oliver is freely using the character.
What are they gonna do, sue?
reads the copy on the image.
John Oliver and Steambot WillieHBO
Ya, probably fine.
Mickeys last appearance was onLast Week Tonightslast original episode of 2023, which aired on Dec. 17.
Watch on Deadline
Did Disney ever sue us over that?
Oliver asked about using the public domain character as Mickey appeared in the background.
I dont see why the f*** not, Mickey adds.
Steamboat Willieentered the public domain last year, but only the black-and-white version of Mickey Mouse.
Newer iterations of the character remain protected and can only be used by Disney alone for the time being.
Twohorror pics using theSteamboat Williecharacterhave been unveiled in recent months taking advantage that Mickey Mouse entered the public domain.
