Even after a major shutdown, the conversation isn’t over.
OpenAI is still in discussions with Disney following the closure of its Sora video platform—leaving the future of their high-profile partnership uncertain. Here’s what we know.
OpenAI has confirmed it is still in talks with Disney following the shutdown of its AI video platform, Sora, despite the abrupt end to one of the most closely watched partnerships in entertainment and tech.
The Sora platform, which allowed users to generate short-form videos using artificial intelligence, was officially discontinued in March 2026 after facing a combination of high operational costs, resource demands, and strategic shifts within OpenAI.
The shutdown also brought an end to a major agreement between OpenAI and The Walt Disney Company, which had included a reported $1 billion investment and licensing deal allowing Sora to use more than 200 Disney-owned characters across franchises like Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars.
Despite the cancellation of Sora, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has indicated that discussions with Disney are ongoing, suggesting that the relationship between the two companies may continue in some form.
The original partnership was seen as a significant step forward for AI in entertainment, giving users the ability to create short videos featuring well-known characters. However, the project also raised concerns around copyright, content ownership, and the role of AI in creative industries.
The sudden shutdown reportedly came as a surprise to some partners and followed internal decisions by OpenAI to refocus on core AI priorities, including next-generation models and emerging technologies like AI agents.
While the Sora platform itself is being phased out, both companies have signaled continued interest in responsible AI collaboration, leaving the door open for future partnerships.
At this point, no new agreement has been announced, and it remains unclear whether Disney and OpenAI will pursue a revised version of their original deal or explore entirely new opportunities.
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