MUMBAI: Disney owns three of the top ten character franchises, according to Forbes.com's annual "Top Earning Fictional Characters List."

Forbes.com estimates that the top-ten fictional characters grossed more than $25 billion last year.

Disney senior VP brand management Matt Ryan added, "At Disney, we strive to develop characters that engage a child's imagination, tell stories that connect with families and find ways for our
characters to live on in the hearts and minds of children everywhere.

"The consistent top ranking of Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh on Forbes.com's list tells us that these characters live on with new generations. And we will continue to introduce classic characters, like Nemo, which children can enjoy for years to come."

Disney consumer products worldwide chairman Andy Mooney added, "The resurgence of Mickey to this year's top ranking can be attributed to the successful programs we implemented, including the Mickey 75th Anniversary, Mickey postage stamp programme, vintage Mickey fashion line, as well as new DVD and television releases surrounding the character.

"Although Disney Princess was not eligible for this list, the power of the Disney Princess brand is truly making its mark among young girls -- with a 300 per cent growth in the past three years."

To calculate the earnings of the world's top fictional characters, Forbes.com added together worldwide toy/merchandise sales, videogame sales, publishing and box-office revenue, as well as DVD/VHS sales and rental revenue.