NBCUniversal attempt to trademark “Dunder Mifflin” was rejected in 2020 by the United States Patent and Trademark Office because it was previously registered in 2014 by Jay Kennette Media Group. NBCUniversal is appealing the ruling and taking to court over trademark infringement, claiming that the company trademarked the name “Dunder Mifflin,” based on their hit show “The Office.” NBCUniversal Media LLC, Universal Television LLC, and Universal Studios Licensing are demanding that “trademark squatter” Jay Kennette Media Group immediately stop the sale of any products related to “Dunder Mifflin” and destroy any leftover merchandise, along with unspecified damages and profits from the inventory.
“According to reports, NBCUniversal argues that Jay Kennette Media Group and Jay Kennette, its owner, “built a business based on registering trademarks belonging to others” in an attempt to make a profit by either selling the trademark back to the proper owners or causing “consumer confusion” by selling merchandise that features famed TV shows, films or video games that are not connected to the Jay Kennette company.”
The case could be an important reminder for companies to register trademarks for their associated brands and prevent others from trademarking the names. “The Office” remains one of the most syndicated shows on television.
– Excerpt from an article for HYPEBEAST by Sophie Caraan. Read the full article here.
___________________________________________________________________
Disclaimer: Please note that the information contained within this news post and site is offered simply as a consideration to visitors who are in the entertainment industry and are seeking to learn more about various areas of entertainment, be it in film, movies, television, music, digital, new media, film financing, merchandising and/or branding. As such, the information so provided should never be construed as legal advice. If you need further assistance or legal advice for your specific matter, please do not hesitate in contacting an entertainment attorney (film, music, digital, licensing, financing) here in Los Angeles, California at The Hollywood Lawyer by(1) emailing us at info@hollywoodlawyer.com; (2) calling us at (323) 300-4184; or (3) filling out our online form. thehollywoodlawyer.com
