Betty Boop Enters the Public Domain and Could Transform Hollywood

On January 1, 2026, works from 1930 entered the public domain, including Betty Boop; creators can now use her early images and name without permission.

On January 1, 2026, thousands of works first published in 1930 entered the public domain. Among those works is the animated character Betty Boop, who was created by Max Fleischer and introduced by Fleischer Studios in 1930. The public-domain status means early images from those original works and the character name can be used without seeking permission or a license. The development has drawn attention because past public-domain arrivals of well-known characters have prompted a wide range of new adaptations. Known details: - January 1, 2026 marked the public-domain release of many works from 1930, including Betty Boop. - Betty Boop was created by Max Fleischer and introduced by Fleischer Studios in 1930. - Entering the public domain permits creators to use early images and the character's name from those 1930 works without seeking permission. - The article notes that Winnie the Pooh's public-domain entry in 2022 led to new adaptations, including films in the horror subgenre. - An independent film titled Boop is reported to be in development that reimagines the character in a darker role. Summary: The article reports that public-domain status removes licensing constraints on early Betty Boop material and could broaden who can create with the character. Some projects are already reported in development, while the overall scope and direction of future adaptations is undetermined at this time.