OpenAI is unexpectedly discontinuing Sora, its text-to-video tool. This decision comes just three months after Disney announced a $1 billion investment in OpenAI and plans to incorporate many of its famous characters into the technology.
The company, based in San Francisco, didn’t say why it was ending the tool or when it would be discontinued. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, they acknowledged that the news would be upsetting to many.
The team expressed gratitude to everyone who used Sora, shared their creations, and helped build a community around it.
OpenAI’s recent change in direction happened while they were still talking with Disney about a potential partnership, but the two companies hadn’t finalized any agreement, according to someone with knowledge of the discussions who wasn’t allowed to publicly disclose details.
So, I was hearing that even though Disney publicly announced they were planning a big investment in OpenAI, they hadn’t actually sent any money yet. Apparently, it was a two-way street – OpenAI hadn’t received any licensing fees from Disney for using their characters either. It sounds like things were still very much in the early stages, despite the initial announcement.
I heard from Disney that they understand and respect OpenAI’s choice to focus on other things instead of making videos right now. It seems they’re okay with OpenAI moving in a different direction.
Our teams worked well together, and we value the insights we gained. We’ll keep exploring AI to connect with fans in innovative ways, always prioritizing respect for intellectual property and the rights of content creators, as our spokesperson explained.
Sora’s arrival caused significant disruption in Hollywood, especially because the use of AI and fair payment for actors’ appearances and voices were major points of contention during the 2023 labor dispute.
When Disney announced its partnership with OpenAI, the actors’ union SAG-AFTRA stated it would carefully watch how the deal unfolds to make sure it follows existing agreements and laws regarding the use of performers’ images, voices, and identities.
LA Times staff writer Meg James contributed reporting.
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2026-03-25 03:01