Former GOP Congressman George Santos Sues Jimmy Kimmel and Disney
Expelled Congressman Alleges Copyright Infringement and Fraud
Image Credit: Leon Bennett / Budrul Chukrut / SOPA Images / LightRocket / Jabin Botsford / Getty Images
Former GOP Congressman George Santos has filed a lawsuit against late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, ABC, and Disney, alleging fraud and copyright infringement. Santos claims Kimmel used personalized video messaging site Cameo to deceive him and broadcast the purchased videos on national television and across social media channels for commercial gain, leading to clear copyright infringement. Santos seeks at least $750,000 in damages and a preliminary and permanent injunction to stop the broadcast and dissemination of the videos.
Background
George Santos, who was expelled from Congress in 2023 after serving only a year, has been the subject of Jimmy Kimmel’s Punking videos on Cameo. Kimmel, under different pseudonyms, sent Santos various ridiculous requests which were captured on video and later played on Kimmel’s late-night show.
Legal Dispute
Santos claims that Kimmel misrepresented himself and violated Cameo’s terms of service, which prohibit the use of purchased videos on national TV. Santos’ lawyers argue that Kimmel’s actions constitute deliberate deception and appropriation. Santos is seeking $750,000 in damages, regardless of any potential profits gained by Kimmel and Disney.
Reaction and Update
Representatives for Jimmy Kimmel and Disney have not yet commented on Santos’ lawsuit. Santos’ lawyers anticipate that their request for preliminary and permanent injunctions, as well as damages, will be determined at trial.
This legal dispute between George Santos and Jimmy Kimmel highlights the intersection between politics and entertainment, as well as the potential legal implications of using personalized celebrity messaging sites for comedic purposes.
