As a devoted movie enthusiast, I’m excited to share that for now, CBS seems to have the upper hand in their dispute with Sony Pictures TV regarding the profitable distribution rights to the iconic game shows “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy!” This temporary court ruling is a win for CBS, at least until a more permanent decision is made.
A three-judge appellate court overturned a decision made on April 10, which had granted Sony Pictures control over sales and distribution for the popular syndicated game shows. Since CBS purchased King World Productions in 2000, both companies have shared ownership of these programs.
Sony Pictures has owned the rights to “Wheel” (Wheel of Fortune) and “Jeopardy!” since their acquisition of Merv Griffin Entertainment in 1986, as Merv Griffin, who created these popular game shows, signed a permanent distribution agreement with King World Productions in the mid-1980s. At that time, it was King World who oversaw the revival of the game shows in first-run syndication. Sony is responsible for producing the shows, while CBS manages their sales and distribution to the over 150 television stations that air them.
Television shows “Jeopardy” and “The Wheel of Fortune” have been popular choices for American viewers during prime-time hours since their debuts in 1983 and 1984.
Or simply:
Both “Jeopardy” and “Wheel of Fortune” have been staples on U.S. TV since the 80s, with their first appearances being in 1983 and 1984 respectively.
In legal proceedings, Sony Pictures claims that CBS has violated their long-standing distribution contract by engaging in activities related to the shows that exceeded the limits of their granted rights. Concurrently, CBS alleges that Sony is attempting to seize more money and unilaterally modify a deal that they find unfavorable.
A judicial panel in California’s Second Appellate District has temporarily halted the lower court’s initial order permitting Sony to manage distribution and sales activities. This decision, made by the appellate court, requires Sony to submit its appeal by April 28th, while CBS must respond by May 9th.
Originally, Sony was granted a preliminary injunction to prevent them from supplying new episodes to CBS for distribution to their affiliate stations. However, the appeals court has temporarily halted this action for the time being.
CBS and Sony Pictures declined to comment.
More to come
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2025-04-17 00:48