Friday, February 15, 2008

A Brief Look into the Naked Cowboy Case

So I just read an article on CNN.com that claimed the infamous Naked Cowboy of Times Square was sueing the Mars Corportation for Trademark Infringement. Everyone who's been to NYC is familiar with the guiter playing man wearing nothing but some boots, a cowboy hat, and a pair of underwear (despite the bitter weather) who serenades people walking through Times Square. Apparently, Mars created a new bill board depicting a guitar-playing M&M dressed only in underwear in a scene that looks an awfully lot like Times Square. The Naked Cowboy (who's name is really Robert Burck) is taking Mars to court, sueing them for $6 million because they used his name and image without his consent.

As ridiculous as this case may sound, Burck might very well have a chance of winning. He had apparently copyrighted his name and image several years ago and did not give Mars written consent to use these items. I definetly want to wait and read more about this case as it progresses to see who comes out on top.

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