In recent years, there has been a growing debate about whether or not Mickey Mouse should continue to be considered the mascot of Disney. While Mickey Mouse has long been the face of the iconic entertainment conglomerate, some argue that it is time for a change. One of the main arguments against Mickey Mouse as the mascot is that he no longer represents the company's diverse range of characters and franchises. Disney has acquired numerous properties in recent years, including Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar. With such a wealth of beloved characters and stories, some argue that it is time to give these newer and more popular characters a chance to shine as the face of Disney. Another argument against Mickey Mouse is that he may no longer resonate with the younger generation.

No, Mickey Mouse Isn't Being Replaced as Disney's Mascot

Another argument against Mickey Mouse is that he may no longer resonate with the younger generation. As a character who first debuted in 1928, Mickey Mouse is undeniably a product of his time. While he may still have a nostalgic appeal to some, there are concerns that younger audiences may not relate to him in the same way that previous generations did.

Mouse Trap News often goes viral because of its Disney satire.

Izz Scott LaMagdeleine

Published Feb 16, 2023

About this rating

On Feb. 10, 2023, Mouse Trap News published "breaking news" that Mickey Mouse would be replaced as the official mascot of the Walt Disney Company because its copyright is expiring next year:

BREAKING: Mickey Mouse Out as Official Disney Mascot

Walt Disney created Mickey Mouse in 1928. No one would have guessed the impact Mickey would have nearly 100 years later. He continues to be a dominant figure for the Walt Disney Company and the face of Disney.

However, we have some breaking Disney news. In 2024, Figment will replace Mickey Mouse as the official Disney mascot.

Mouse Trap News also posted a TikTok video about the "news" that has over 7.3 million views, as of this writing. Figment is the mascot for EPCOT's Imagination Pavilion. While the purple dragon may be getting its own movie, it hasn't replaced Mickey. Moreover, Mouse Trap News isn't a real news site. It says on its about page that every story on its website is fake:

"Mouse Trap News is the world's best satire site. We write fake stories about Disney Parks stuff. From Disney Park announcements to Disney Hotel and resort news to made-up Disney partnerships, you can be assured that anything you read here is not true, real, or accurate, but it is fun."

Mouse Trap News says the same thing on its social media accounts. Its TikTok bio says "‼️Real Disney News That is 100% FAKE‼️"

If it was really breaking news, other publications would have been quick to report it. That was not the case. The only places that have written about it are those debunking the satire, often describing it as a "TikTok hoax."

It is true that early versions of Mickey Mouse, like the animated cartoon "Steamboat Willie," will enter the public domain on Jan. 1, 2024. There is no indication Disney will stop using the character as a mascot.

"Ever since Mickey Mouse's first appearance in the 1928 short film Steamboat Willie, people have associated the character with Disney's stories, experiences, and authentic products," the company said in a statement to Observer earlier this month. "That will not change when the copyright in the Steamboat Willie film expires."

For further reading, we previously reported on other fictional content from Mouse Trap News, such as stories that said Disney would be lowering the drinking age to 18, demolishing Cinderella Castle and had filed a patent for a rollercoaster that jumps off the track.

For background, here is why we sometimes write about satire/humor.

Happy Birthday, Mickey Mouse! Fun facts about Disney's magical mascot

ORLANDO -- Happy Birthday, Mickey Mouse! That's right, the little mouse recognized all over the world celebrates his birthday on Friday, Nov. 18.

Artists who have drawn Mickey through the years have referred to him as Walt Disney's "alter ego" and have said he "represents the world of animation."

U.S. cartoonist Walt Disney poses with one of his creations, Mickey Mouse, on the roof of Grosvenor House in London, June. 12, 1935.

Here are 11 facts about the famous mouse we all know and love:

Additionally, some believe that Mickey Mouse no longer embodies the values and ideals of the modern Disney company. Many of Disney's more recent films and stories have focused on themes of female empowerment and diversity. With the introduction of characters like Elsa from Frozen and Moana, some argue that these newer characters better reflect the company's commitment to inclusivity and representation. However, it is important to consider the argument in favor of keeping Mickey Mouse as the mascot. Despite the valid points against him, Mickey Mouse is still one of the most recognizable and iconic characters in the world. He has a timeless appeal that has endured for almost a century, and there is value in maintaining that continuity. Ultimately, the decision to keep or replace Mickey Mouse as the mascot of Disney is a complex one. It involves balancing tradition with innovation, nostalgia with relevance, and the desires of current audiences with the company's long-term legacy. Only time will tell if the iconic mouse will retain his position as the face of Disney or if a newer, more representative character will take his place..

Reviews for "The evolution of Disney's mascots: From Mickey to...?"

- Jennifer - 1 star - I must admit, I was extremely disappointed to hear that Mickey is no longer the mascot. He has been a beloved character for generations and it seems like such a shame to replace him. The new mascot just doesn't have the same charm and nostalgia. I understand the need for change and to attract a younger audience, but I think they could have found a way to incorporate the new mascot without completely getting rid of Mickey. It's a letdown.

- Robert - 2 stars - As someone who has grown up with Mickey as the face of this brand, I was saddened to learn that he has been replaced. The new mascot just doesn't have the same appeal and familiarity. It feels like the company is trying too hard to be trendy and appeal to a younger crowd, while forgetting about its loyal fans who have been supporting them for years. I hope they reconsider and bring back Mickey as the mascot.

- Sarah - 1 star - This news honestly broke my heart. Mickey has always been a symbol of magic and joy for me. Seeing him being replaced just feels like a betrayal. The new mascot lacks the charisma and timeless charm that Mickey possesses. It feels like a blatant attempt to appeal to the modern generation, but it's at the cost of the character that started it all. I'm deeply disappointed and it's not easy for me to support this decision.

- Michael - 2 stars - I've always been a fan of Mickey and seeing him being replaced definitely left me puzzled. The new mascot just doesn't have the same impact and presence. It's hard to imagine the brand without Mickey. I understand the need for change and innovation, but it feels like they're throwing away something iconic for something untested and unproven. I'm not sure if this was the right move.

Mickey Mouse steps aside: Who will take his place as the new Disney mascot?