Hello Ladies,
When does satire/humor involving celebrities cross the line when appearing in a humorous piece? One writer told me that jokes are protected speech. One publisher said that they were afraid of being sued.
Your thoughts?
Thanks!
Sabrina
I wrote a satirical novel based on a well-known personality. My understanding is famous people cannot sue you b/c they are part of the public domain. Unless you say something libelous or untrue they are "fair game." It's the price people pay for fame. I'm writing a piece now for submission to an anthology about someone who lived next door to me in the dorm when we were teenagers. It's revealing but not harmful. Most celebrities or "the famous" expect to be the center of attention.
I say, "Write away!"
Marcia
Lucille,
The Hustler Magazine, Inc. et al. v. Jerry Falwell case settled this issue. But I wonder why some publishers remain fearful about obvious satire/parody. Please review this U.S. Supreme Court case...tell me what you think?
Sabrina