The year 2026 will see a wave of iconic characters and works enter the public domain, allowing creators to use them freely without seeking permission or paying fees. Among the notable entries are the beloved cartoon characters Betty Boop and Blondie, whose copyrights expire on January 1, 2026. This development continues a trend that began in 2019, following a lengthy period of copyright extensions that limited new works from entering the public domain.
According to Jennifer Jenkins, law professor and director of Duke University‘s Center for the Study of the Public Domain, this year’s collection is significant. She describes January 1 as Public Domain Day, a time to celebrate the cultural heritage that becomes accessible to all. Jenkins notes the importance of these works, stating they reflect the historical context of the interwar period and the Great Depression.
Classic Characters Enter the Spotlight
Betty Boop first appeared in the 1930 animated short “Dizzy Dishes.” Originally depicted as a dog, her design evolved into the flapper icon recognized today. With her distinct appearance, characterized by a baby face and poodle ears, Betty became a cultural phenomenon. As Jenkins humorously suggests, Betty’s early portrayal could inspire new creative works, jokingly proposing a plot where she gains her unique traits after being bitten by a radioactive dog.
Similarly, Blondie Boopadoop, the star of Chic Young’s comic strip that debuted in 1930, chronicles her life alongside Dagwood Bumstead. The strip’s enduring popularity has resulted in adaptations across various media, and it continues to resonate with audiences today.
Additionally, this year will see the entry of nine new Mickey Mouse cartoons into the public domain, including the early iterations of his companion, Pluto. This follows the 2024 public domain release of the original “Steamboat Willie,” which first introduced the iconic character.
Literary Icons Join Public Domain
In literature, the public domain will also welcome influential characters such as Nancy Drew, whose first four novels, starting with “The Secret of the Old Clock,” were published in 1930. The sleuth Sam Spade, from Dashiell Hammett‘s “The Maltese Falcon,” and the elderly detective Miss Marple from Agatha Christie‘s “Murder at the Vicarage” are also among the notable entries.
Other significant literary works entering the public domain include William Faulkner‘s “As I Lay Dying” and the educational series featuring Dick and Jane, which has shaped reading education for generations.
Film enthusiasts will also benefit from this transition, as several classic films, including “Animal Crackers” featuring the Marx Brothers, will become publicly accessible. Other notable films include “The Blue Angel,” starring Marlene Dietrich, and two Academy Award winners, “All Quiet on the Western Front” and “Cimarron.”
Musical compositions from the early 20th century will also enter the public domain. Four timeless pieces by George Gershwin, including “Embraceable You” and “I Got Rhythm,” will join classics such as “Georgia on My Mind” and “Dream a Little Dream of Me.”
As the landscape of creativity evolves, the new public domain entries in 2026 promise a wealth of opportunities for creators across various fields, further enriching the cultural tapestry. The upcoming years will continue to unlock a treasure trove of artistic works, ensuring that these beloved characters and stories remain alive and relevant in contemporary culture.
