Los Angeles - Mickey Mouse marked his 80th birthday Tuesday, but those expecting a big party were disappointed.

There were no special events planned for the world's favourite rodent at any of Disney's theme parks in the US, though one woman in the Seattle area did hold a party for herself and Mickey because their birthdays fall on the same day.

Mickey made his film debut in Steamboat Willie on November 18, 1928, months after Walt Disney and his employees came up with the concept after a previous cartoon character, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, was taken over by another company in a trademark dispute.

Disney had originally wanted to call his creation Mortimer, but changed his name to Mickey on the advice of his wife. Mickey became a superstar in the Depression years, and over the next two decades appeared in dozens of short movies before pioneering the merchandising and branding that is now such an important part of the entertainment business.

Mickey's enduring stardom is all the more surprising because his last major film role was in 1952. But he has endured thanks to Disney's cable TV channels around the world, and due to his role as the corporate symbol of the conglomerate.

Despite his advanced years, Mickey has no plans to retire.

"For us he is a timeless asset," said a Disney spokesman. "He has the same relevance today as he had on his first day."