Can I use a celebrity name in a game?

Right of Publicity in Video Games – How You Can Legally Include a Celebrity in Your Game. The Right of Publicity is one’s economic right to commercialize their likeness. Essentially, you cannot use someone’s name, photograph, voice, or persona to sell your product without their permission.

Can I use the name of a famous person?

Most often, the protectable trademarks of a famous person are his name, and sometimes his likeness. Although the name is associated with a person, that does not make it a trademark, even if that person is famous. The law requires that the person claiming a trademark over her name prove what is called secondary meaning.

Can I use a celebrity’s face on a shirt?

It’s generally not permissible to print celebrity images on merchandise without authorization to do so. Business owners who use celebrity images on T-shirts without permission are potentially setting themselves up for a legal battle that could lead to a big payout to the celebrities involved.

What happens if you impersonate a celebrity?

Imposters can be charged up to $1,000 or sentenced to up to a year in prison. Other states are not as clear about consequences.

Is it legal to use a Celebrity’s Name in an advertisement?

It is for this reason that all celebrities used in advertisements or endorsements sign consent or release agreements. The right of publicity is not violated, however, if the celebrity’s name or likeness is used in a non-commercial way. That type of use is protected by the First Amendment.

Is it legal to use a celebrity’s image without permission?

The right of publicity is not violated, however, if the celebrity’s name or likeness is used in a non-commercial way. That type of use is protected by the First Amendment. Don’t get too excited, though; what is defined as “non-commercial” can be a bit of a gray area (especially in the age of social media).

Is it illegal to use someone’s name for commercial purposes?

Usually, people run into trouble in this area when they use someone’s name or photograph in a commercial setting, such as in advertising or other promotional activities. But, some states also prohibit use of another person’s identity for the user’s own personal benefit, whether or not the purpose is strictly commercial.

How to hold someone liable for unlawful use of name/likeness?

A plaintiff must establish three elements to hold someone liable for unlawful use of name or likeness: 1. Use of a Protected Attribute: The plaintiff must show that the defendant used an aspect of his or her identity that is protected by the law.