As of January 1, 2026, a significant number of iconic creative works have entered the public domain, including a precursor to the beloved cartoon character Betty Boop. The version of Betty Boop featured in the 1930 Dizzy Dishes cartoon is now available for use without copyright restrictions, allowing anyone to incorporate this character into their own work. This early iteration of Betty Boop boasts her characteristic large eyes and pout, as well as elongated dog ears, which were a result of her romantic interest in a dog chef at the time.
In addition to this version of Betty Boop, other notable works have also entered the public domain, including new Mickey Mouse cartoons and comics, the Blondie comic strip characters Blondie and Dagwood, and William Faulkner’s novel As I Lay Dying. The film All Quiet on the Western Front and several classic songs, such as “Dream a Little Dream of Me” and “Georgia on My Mind,” are also now in the public domain. These works can be used without permission or payment, providing a wealth of creative material for artists, writers, and musicians.
However, it is essential to note that the expiration of these copyrights does not apply to other versions of the characters or works that are still under copyright. For instance, while nine early Mickey Mouse cartoons are now in the public domain, the Mickey Mouse character itself remains subject to enduring rights. Similarly, Fleischer Studios, which owns the copyright to the fully developed Betty Boop character, has emphasized that the expiration of the copyright for the Dizzy Dishes version does not affect other Betty Boop copyrights and trademarks.
According to Duke University’s Center for the Study of the Public Domain, other notable works entering the public domain in 2026 include literary classics, musical compositions, and films. Some of the notable musical compositions now in the public domain include “On the Sunny Side of the Street,” “I Got Rhythm,” and “Embraceable You.” These works offer a rich cultural heritage that can be drawn upon and reinterpreted by creators around the world.
The entry of these works into the public domain is a significant development, providing new opportunities for creative expression and innovation. As the public domain continues to grow, it is likely to have a profound impact on the arts, entertainment, and culture, enabling new generations of creators to build upon the foundations laid by their predecessors.