A Bonanza for Lawyers
Kevin J. Greene · SSRN Electronic Journal · 2016
Reality television shows have transformed the television industry. As this genre has expanded, legal disputes have risen and have become big business for lawyers. These disputes have produced case law that has challenged the entertainment industry. The article discusses the intellectual property issues associated with reality shows, specifically copyright infringement, idea theft and contract claims. The author mentions several cases in which copyright infringement was claimed. The author also explains that many of the copyright cases were dismissed by the courts and that copyright claims against reality shows are generally unsuccessful since copyright law does not protect ideas and concepts. This article also highlights idea theft and contract claims within reality television. The article states that idea theft lawsuits are rarely successful in courts, but such lawsuits have become a staple within the industry. However, “ideas” do not receive much protection within intellectual property criteria. The author also discusses s a few cases in which idea misappropriation claims were contested, but did not succeed. Lastly, Contract issues in realty television are known for being unfair for the contestants, but beneficial to the show producers and the network. In part, many of the contracts include clauses which limit the participant’s rights in suing and in having any control over their participation with the show.