The Naked Cowboy has filed a $6 million lawsuit against Mars. Times Square busker Robert Burk says the candy maker stole his image for a massive video billboard featuring an M&M wearing a cowboy hat, boots, and briefs.
The M&M appears for a few seconds in a five-minute looping advertisement that also features other New York icons. The case will be heard in Manhattan federal court. Burck began his career as a street performer in 1998, and has appeared on numerous TV shows and music videos. Link -via YesButNoButYes
"All I've got is my underwear. It's the most brilliant thing that's ever been created from a marketing perspective. You can't stop it," said Burck, 37, who said he filed suit on the advice of lawyers and trademark experts.
The M&M appears for a few seconds in a five-minute looping advertisement that also features other New York icons. The case will be heard in Manhattan federal court. Burck began his career as a street performer in 1998, and has appeared on numerous TV shows and music videos. Link -via YesButNoButYes
I am the official writer for NAKED COWBOY: KING OF TIMES SQUARE. This is his own comic book. When I decided to do a comic about him, I made sure that I was able to do it, I called him up and we agreed upon a deal. M&Ms did nothing of the sort. So, he does have a case. For all who is wandering you can get his first comic here, www.indyplanet.com, We have the Rock Band HELIX in the next issue coming soon. Go to www.myspace.com/dravencomics to get the update on myspace. Thanks and take care.
Jarrod-
Naked Cowboy: comic book writer-
It's kinda awkward...