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Google needs Hollywood more than the studios need AI

RumorFundingSep 1, 2026

Google has approached Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Universal about licensing studio content for AI training, according to unnamed sources cited by The Los Angeles Times. No agreements have been reached. Google reportedly could pay Disney / Pixar around $40 million for rights to generate outputs featuring a single copyrighted character, with costs potentially reaching billions. Studios remain cautious amid fan backlash to AI use in productions like Spider-Man: Brand New Day.

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Citation chain · 1 source

GoogleCompanyDisneyCompanyUniversalCompanyWarner Bros. DiscoveryCompanyPixarCompanyThe Los Angeles TimesCompany
Canonical: https://www.theverge.com/tech/987429/google-needs-hollywood-more-than-the-studios-need-ai