Tintin and Popeye are entering the public domain

The copyrights for the iconic comic book heroes Popeye and Tintin will expire as of 2025, making them public domain.

However, Popeye's source of strength, spinach, and the animated films that began in 1933 will remain subject to copyright. Since copyrights in Europe remain valid for 70 years after the death of Tintin's creator Hergé in 1983, it will take time for the character to become fully public domain.

Popeye first met readers in 1929 in the newspaper comic strip 'Thimble Theater,' drawn by E.C. Segar.

Tintin, created in 1929 by the Belgian cartoonist Hergé, was among the most popular comic book works of the 20th century. As of January 1, 2025, the Tintin character will be available for use in the worlds of cinema, literature, and music without the need to pay royalties.