The original version of Mickey Mouse, who debuted in 'Steamboat Willie' in 1928, officially entered the public domain, as the copyright set by Disney expired. This particular film is historically significant as it was one of the first animated shorts featuring synchronized sound, revolutionizing the animation industry. Directed by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, the short is often credited with establishing the popularity of animation and introducing Mickey Mouse as an enduring cultural icon. The film’s innovative sound design and lively storytelling set new standards for animated features, allowing Disney to evolve and expand into a global entertainment powerhouse.

With the expiration of copyright, the original portrayal of Mickey Mouse can now be used without explicit permission from Disney. Under U.S. copyright law, creative works are meant to become part of the public domain after a set period, allowing others to build upon and adapt existing works. As such, many creators are now exploring new ways to engage with Mickey Mouse’s image, potentially creating fresh interpretations while remaining within the legal boundaries of the trademarked character that governs later versions of Mickey Mouse.

The implications for both creators and consumers are significant, as independent artists, filmmakers, and businesses can now create derivative works based on the original depiction of Mickey. This enables a renewed village of creativity, albeit with a reminder that the character's updated versions—those protected through trademark—still require adherence to Disney's strict branding guidelines, safeguarding their commercial interests. As such, while the original character may now be in public domain, any commercial exploitation needs to navigate complex waters of trademark laws.