Does Disney Own Tarzan?
The question of whether Disney owns Tarzan is a complex one, filled with twists and turns. As we delve into the history of Tarzan, we’ll uncover the answer to this question and explore the rights and struggles involved in adapting this timeless character for the big and small screens.
The Origins of Tarzan
Tarzan, the Lord of the Jungle, was created by author Edgar Rice Burroughs in 1912. The character first appeared in a series of novels and short stories, with the first novel, "Tarzan of the Apes," being published in 1912. Since then, Tarzan has become a cultural icon, with numerous adaptations, parodies, and reinterpretations across various media.
The Early Years of Disney’s Involvement
In the 1950s, Walt Disney Productions (WDP) acquired the film rights to the Tarzan character from Burroughs’ estate. WDP produced several Tarzan animated films, including "Tarzan and the Forest Feast" (1952) and "Tarzan’s Secret Treasure" (1956). Disney also used the character in its Theme Parks and Merchandising (TMs) operations.
The Mousketeers and the Copyright Battle
In 1974, Disney’s movie studio was shut down, and the company sold the majority of its film assets to its subsidiary, Walt Disney Productions. The Tarzan character and the related intellectual property (IP) were transferred to the subsidiary. Meanwhile, the original copyright for the Tarzan novels and stories was held by Edgar Rice Burroughs’ grandson, Danton Burroughs.
The 1980s: A Legal Battle
In the 1980s, Disney (now known as The Walt Disney Company) and the Danton Burroughs Estate, led by their attorney, Michael L. Curtis, engaged in a bitter copyright battle. The two parties respectively claimed ownership of the Tarzan character, with Disney insisting that they had acquired the rights to the character in the 1950s. The dispute eventually led to a court case, Tarzan Associates Ltd. v. The Walt Disney Company, which was decided in 1994. The court ultimately ruled in favor of Disney, awarding the company the rights to the Tarzan character.
Modern Era: The Disney Era
Following the court decision, Disney continued to utilize the Tarzan character in various productions, including the 2003 animated film "Tarzan & Jane" and the 2007 live-action film "Tarzan". Disney also integrated Tarzan into their theme parks, such as the Tarzan’s Treehouse attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom at the Walt Disney World Resort.
The Current State of Affairs
Today, The Walt Disney Company owns the rights to the Tarzan character, including the intellectual property, trademarks, and royalties for the use of the name and image of Tarzan. Disney has continued to use the character in various formats, from films and theme park attractions to video games and merchandise. The company has also expanded the character’s universe, offering various spin-offs, sequels, and adaptations.
What It Means for the Future
As we look to the future, it’s clear that Disney’s ownership of Tarzan will continue to shape the character’s trajectory. Disney will likely continue to use Tarzan in various forms of media and entertainment, solidifying the character’s place as a beloved and iconic figure in popular culture.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, the complex history of Disney’s ownership of Tarzan is marked by twists and turns, from the early acquisitions and sales to the legal battles and court cases. Ultimately, The Walt Disney Company owns the rights to the Tarzan character, and we can expect to see the character continue to thrive under Disney’s creative guidance.
Key Points:
• Edgar Rice Burroughs created Tarzan in 1912
• The Walt Disney Company acquired the film rights to Tarzan in the 1950s
• There was a copyright battle between Disney and the Danton Burroughs Estate in the 1980s, with Disney ultimately emerging victorious
• Disney now owns the rights to the Tarzan character, including intellectual property, trademarks, and royalties
• Disney will continue to use Tarzan in various forms of media and entertainment
Timeline:
- 1912: Edgar Rice Burroughs creates Tarzan
- 1950s: Walt Disney Productions acquires the film rights to Tarzan
- 1980s: Copyright battle between Disney and Danton Burroughs Estate
- 1994: Court decision in favor of Disney
- 2003: Animated film "Tarzan & Jane" released
- 2007: Live-action film "Tarzan" released
- 2019: The Walt Disney Company owns the rights to the Tarzan character