The powers behind the show Rock Star: Supernova have been sued by another band named Supernova. The first Supernova claim to have been using the name since 1991, but have never formally applied for a trademark on the name. They want CBS, Mark Burnett Productions, as well as Tommy Lee, Gilby Clarke, and Jason Newsted to stop using the name and pay damages.
According to the lawsuit, representatives for Mark Burnett Productions ("Survivor," "The Apprentice") filed seven U.S. trademark applications for the name Supernova and two for "Rock Star: Supernova."
Gary Hecker, an attorney for Mark Burnett Productions, said the company has the legal right to the name.
"The complaint is without merit," he said.
So I suppose it's down to common-law trademark vs. officially filed for trademarks. I'm not sure which group should win, but I know that awarding "damages" to the first Supernova would be absolutely ridiculous. The first Supernova will only gain fame from this, and I have no clue how they are being "harmed" by all of it.
I'm down with that, suing them and expecting real damages is ignorant.... I think they are sueing for the publicity, and you have to sue for damages.... I've read that The supernova from Rock Star knew of the other, before choosing the name.... but in my opinion if the other is just a small one town two town band who cares, I'm sure there is some small band somewhere named "Who gives a manure" but hey I've never heard of them...
