Johnny Cash Estate Sues Illinois Wedding Venue for Using Name, Photos
The John R. Cash Revocable Trust has filed a suit against Flora, Ill., business, Johnny & June's Reception Hall and Entertainment Venue, and its owners, Dustin and Kathy Smith. The lawsuit says the company is using Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash's names and likenesses without permission.
“While the Trust understands the pop culture appeal of referencing Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, and appreciates the Defendant’s affinity toward the Cash family, their love story and country music," the lawsuit explains, per the Blast, "the Trust is charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the names, likenesses, trademarks and other indicia of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash are not used in a manner that is likely to cause confusion or mistake in the marketplace."
The Blast adds that the Trust is suing for an injunction against the venue, which would order Johnny & June's owners to stop all references to Cash and Carter, and account for all profits made from the infringement. "The Defendants’ use of the names, likenesses and personae of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash is without permission or authorization from the Trust," continues the lawsuit.
Johnny & June's website describes the venue as "an old car dealership that has been renovated to host a wide variety of events and guests," which can seat up to 350 people banquet-style and more than 400 for concerts. The Smiths' daughters, Laila and Maura Kay, are also involved in the business.
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