Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Missouri

Using a famous persons face in a painting.

A friend of mine has made a painting of Micheal Jordan and is considering selling it but he doesn't have any special permission to use his face. We were wonder what he might need to do to be able to sell the painting. Any info would be appreciated.


Asked on 10/05/02, 12:29 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Bruce Burdick Burdick Law Firm

Re: Using a famous persons face in a painting.

You should obtain the permission of Michael Jordan, through his agent, to produce the items you mention. Celebrities have a right of publicity, which your son's paintings might violate. Celebrities make much of their income from endorsements and merchandizing so they would most likely try to force you to stop making money off of their reputation, i.e. by riding their coattails, if you are doing so now.

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Answered on 10/05/02, 5:47 pm


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