OpenAI is not paying Disney in cash for those character rights. Instead, Disney is being compensated entirely in stock warrants—options to buy more equity in OpenAI at today’s valuation—on top of its already announced $1 billion equity investment. This isn’t just a licensing deal. It is a bet that generative AI will be so valuable that trading immediate IP revenue for upside in the AI company itself is worth the risk. For creators, this shift has profound implications.

Disney’s latest moves with OpenAI and Google didn’t just shake up Hollywood—they quietly reset the baseline for what creators should be asking for in every contract in 2026. This article is your quick 3-step reference guide (with practical tips) that you can keep beside you when you mark up a deal, or share with your clients to help them negotiate fair deals. Bonus: check out the 3 Step Checklist for Your Next Brand Deal at the end!

Disney and OpenAI announced a three-year, $1 billion licensing deal that fundamentally redefines how IP holders negotiate with AI platforms. Starting in early 2026, the Sora video generation platform will host over 200 iconic characters from the Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars universes—allowing users to create sanctioned AI-generated content.

The conversation around artificial intelligence and data privacy is no longer just for tech giants and policymakers. It directly impacts your content, your contracts, and the long-term security of your creative business. With major federal legislation like Bill C-27 being paused and provinces like Quebec forging ahead with stringent new rules, understanding this maze is critical. Let's break down what’s happening and what it means for Canadian content creators.

It’s impossible to ignore the headlines proclaiming that the legal profession is under threat from Artificial Intelligence. The narrative is compelling: sophisticated AI will soon be able to analyze cases, draft flawless documents, and provide legal help at a fraction of the cost, leading to a future where clients prefer a chatbot to a boardroom. For creators accustomed to the fast pace of technological change…