The cultural works becoming public domain in 2026, from Betty Boop to Nancy Drew ^81.8%

NPR - By Rachel Treisman - 12/26/2025, 10:00 AM

The original version of Betty Boop — as seen in this "Dizzy Dishes" cartoon — is one of many works from 1930 entering the public domain in 2026. A new year means a new parade of classic characters and works entering the public domain. Under U.S. law, the copyright on thousands of creations from 1930 — including films, books, musical... more