Entering Public Domain in 2026: The Liberation of Betty Boop, Pluto, and Nancy Drew

When 1930 arrived, it ushered in a series of provocative movies, and marked the debut of iconic characters like Betty Boop and Disney's beloved canine figure.

I once penned a sci-fi short where I desired to weave in lyrics from the 1928 hit, "Button Up Your Overcoat." The narrative found a buyer, but the editor warned that featuring the song, then under copyright, was too risky.

If composed today, I could've seamlessly included those lyrics, as the song transitioned into the public domain a couple of years back.

For those delving into artistic domains, seeking to reuse certain songs, literature, or films, this could be your moment. In the U.S., any work minted in 1930, bar audio recordings predating 1925, is now yours for the taking without legal strings.

Last year, Duke Law School’s Center for Public Domain Studies enlightened us on notable works that have shed their copyright shackles.

Noteworthy Works Now Accessible

Let’s explore renowned creations that are now free for public use this year:

Films produced in 1930 enjoyed leniency from the Hays Code, which demanded films maintain moral standards. Although some studios started adopting the code that year, strict enforcement didn't occur until 1934. A classic example is the 1930 movie featuring Marlene Dietrich, where a scene includes a same-sex kiss—events later forbidden by the code.

Betty Boop's inaugural appearance in 1930 marks another significant entry to the public domain. Debuting as a canine rather than the human-like version she later became, her initial portrayal (with her dog-ear-like earrings) is now free for creative use. Similarly, Disney’s Pluto, initially named Rover, gets its turn to roam free from copyright confines.

For those inclined to gaming and interested in creating with these newly available characters, there’s a competition open for entries until January’s end. Both digital and tabletop submissions are welcome, provided they involve works from the pivotal year 1930.