Disney and Universal to Midjourney: Look What You Made Us Do (Sue You!)

A Long List of Problems: Midjourney's 'Style'

Okay so picture this: I'm backstage about to go on for the Eras Tour when I hear whispers about Disney and Universal throwing some serious shade at Midjourney. Apparently they're not too happy about AI creating images of their iconic characters and honestly? I get it. It's like someone using your lyrics without giving credit – it's just not 'the last great American dynasty' move you know? Disney and Universal are saying Midjourney's a 'copyright free rider' and a 'bottomless pit of plagiarism.' Ouch! That's gotta sting more than writing 'All Too Well' after a bad breakup!

Are We Out of the Woods? No Response is Not the Answer

According to the suit both companies sent letters to Midjourney’s counsel to prevent further copyright infringement but the company continued to release new iterations of its image generator. Midjourney told Disney it was reviewing the letter but never responded according to the suit. Universal said Midjourney did not respond to its letter. I mean I’ve had my fair share of drama over the years but ignoring a cease and desist letter? That’s a bold strategy Cotton. Let's see if it pays off for them. But seriously the fact that Midjourney didn't respond to Universal’s letter? It's like ignoring a red flag – you *know* it's going to end in 'style.'

The Stakes Are High: 'Our Business is Creativity'

Kimberley Harris from NBCUniversal (aka the parent company of CNBC – small world!) said 'Creativity is the cornerstone of our business.' I feel that in my bones! That’s why I’m so passionate about owning my masters and ensuring that the artists and writers of the world are fully paid for their hard work and talent which keeps this world spinning! I've always believed that the creative process should be protected. After all where would we be without the people who make us feel things?

Piracy is Piracy

Disney's Horacio Gutierrez straight up said 'Piracy is piracy and the fact that it's done by an AI company does not make it any less infringing.' Mic drop! It's like saying just because a remix is made by a robot it doesn't mean you can skip paying royalties. The Mouse House ain't playing around folks. They're ready to shake it off in court... or rather sue it off.

A Battle of Eras: AI vs. Intellectual Property

This whole situation is a real 'Blank Space' of uncertainty. AI is new and we're all trying to figure out where the boundaries are. But one thing's for sure: stealing someone else's creative work is never okay. Copyright law exists for a reason and it’s so critical to support the creative people around the world. So what does this mean for the future? Honestly I don't know. But I’ll be watching this case closely probably while writing a song about it. Stay tuned!

The Jury's Out: Can They 'Shake It Off'?

Disney and Universal are demanding a jury trial arguing that Midjourney’s actions threaten to 'upend the bedrock incentives of U.S. copyright law.' Which let's be real is a big deal. This could set a major precedent for how AI and copyright law interact. Will Midjourney be able to 'Shake It Off'? Or will they find themselves in a 'Getaway Car'? Only time (and a jury) will tell.