Media Powerhouse Sues
to Stop Presses
Network Seeks to Have Trademark Concerns Trump
Free Expression
August 12, 2003. Fox News Network has sued Al Franken in state court in Manhattan to block the publication of his upcoming book, "Lies, and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them: A Fair and Balanced Look at the Right" (Penguin). Fox claims the subtitle infringes their trademark on the words "fair and balanced."
The Authors Guild issued the following statement from board member James Gleick regarding the lawsuit:
"Fox News' attempt to use trademark laws to silence criticism is deplorable," said Mr. Gleick. "Book authors and publishers, television journalists and networks all depend on First Amendment protections to pursue their craft. News organizations, which willingly enter the rough-and-tumble of public debate, must accept the possibility of drawing sharp criticism as part of the bargain."
"If Fox disagrees with Mr. Franken's position, it has ample access through its affiliated companies to respond in a manner that respects our joint need for vigorous, open debate. That way, the various positions can be heard, and people can decide."
The Authors Guild is the nation's largest and oldest society of published authors and the leading writers' advocate for fair compensation, effective copyright protection, and free expression.
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