Mickey Mouse, the iconic character of the Disney franchise, has expressed his concerns to Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, regarding the use of artificial intelligence in content creation on the Sora platform. In a lighthearted yet pointed message, Mickey shared his thoughts about the implications of AI-generated videos that utilize his likeness and those of his friends.
Mickey’s communication highlights the rapid changes taking place within the entertainment industry, particularly the integration of AI technology. He remarked on how, just a short time ago, the focus was on traditional media, while now, user-generated content using AI is becoming mainstream. “Golly, that sounds swell,” he stated, referring to the new possibilities for entertainment that Sora offers. However, Mickey also raised issues about the boundaries of this innovation.
In his message, Mickey noted that while he supports creativity, there are certain themes he would prefer to avoid. He emphasized the importance of maintaining family-friendly content, mentioning that he and his friends cannot be depicted engaging in activities like drinking or drug use. He humorously referred to some of the bizarre scenarios generated by users, which he found concerning, such as having “six fingers on each hand” or being involved in questionable content like “Five Nights at Mickey’s.”
Mickey’s playful tone belied a serious underlying message. He expressed discomfort with the potential for Sora to produce content that does not align with Disney’s values. “Do you know what Sora is willing to make? Song of the South,” he stated, referencing the controversial film that Disney has long distanced itself from. This statement underscores the need for a thoughtful approach to AI-generated content, given the diverse audience that Disney caters to.
The character also alluded to the significant investment of $1 billion that Disney made in OpenAI, which is a crucial factor in developing the Sora platform. Mickey urged Iger to reconsider aspects of the Sora deal, suggesting that undoing it could be as simple as “un-retiring,” a playful jab at Iger’s own career decisions.
In concluding his message, Mickey expressed hope that Iger would take his concerns seriously and ensure that the content produced on Sora remains true to the values of the Disney brand. His lighthearted yet pointed remarks serve as a reminder that the integration of new technology in entertainment must be approached with caution, especially when it involves beloved characters and family-friendly narratives.
The exchange between Mickey Mouse and Bob Iger highlights the complex relationship between traditional storytelling and emerging technologies. As the entertainment landscape evolves, it will be crucial for companies like Disney to navigate these changes while staying true to their core values.
