Popeye and Tintin are now in the public domain

As the calendar flips to 2025, a wave of classic characters from comic strips and books are entering the public domain. This includes the iconic sailor man, Popeye, and the adventurous reporter, Tintin. These beloved characters have been in the hearts of millions for almost a century, and now, they will be available for anyone to use, adapt, and reimagine without any legal restrictions.

Popeye, the spinach-loving sailor with superhuman strength, was created by E.C. Segar and first appeared in a comic strip in 1929. Over the years, Popeye has graced comic books, animated TV shows, and even a live-action film, becoming a cultural icon recognized worldwide. The rights to his character have been held by various entities over the years, most recently King Features Syndicate.

Also entering the public domain is Tintin, the intrepid reporter and adventurer. Tintin was first introduced in a 1929 comic book by Belgian cartoonist Hergé (Georges Remi). The series, which chronicles the globe-trotting adventures of Tintin and his faithful dog Snowy, has been published in over 70 languages and has inspired TV shows, films, and even a Steven Spielberg-directed animated feature.

With these characters now in the public domain, artists, writers, filmmakers, and other creatives can freely use, adapt, or reimagine Popeye and Tintin in their works. This can lead to new interpretations and stories, bringing these classic characters to new generations.

However, it's essential to note that while the characters are in the public domain, specific interpretations, such as certain animated versions or film adaptations, may still be protected by copyright. Therefore, while the raw characters of Popeye and Tintin are free to use, creators should be cautious about imitating too closely any specific copyrighted versions of these characters.

Nonetheless, the entry of these characters into the public domain is a significant event, offering exciting opportunities for creativity and storytelling. It will be intriguing to see how the next generation of artists and creators bring their own unique spins to these enduring characters.