Published: Thursday - July 24, 2008
Words by Allen Starbury
50 Cent (Photo: Interscope)
50 Cent finally filed a lawsuit against Taco Bell on Wednesday (July 23), claiming they used his likeness in a hip-hop themed ad campaign without his permission and without paying him.
According to Reuters, 50 Cent (real name: Curtis Jackson) says the Mexican-style fast food giant was "diluting the value of his good name," and using shady tactics to trick consumers into thinking he had endorsed their chain.
"Without seeking or obtaining Jackson's authorization, defendant Taco Bell made him the star and focus of its nationwide advertising campaign by using his name, persona and trademark to promote Taco Bell's business and products," court papers said.
As widely reported, Taco Bell had sent out a press release, addressed to 50 Cent, that encouraged the rapper to change his name to "79 Cent," "89 Cent" or "99 Cent."
50 says it was designed to promote their "79-89-99 Cent Why Pay More" campaign without paying his large endorsement fee.
The Associated Press reports that 50 is seeking $4 million in damages.
If you use the rapper's name, he expects to be paid for it, and this isn't the first time he's went to court over the use of his name.
Last summer, 50 filed a $1 million lawsuit again internet ad firm, Traffix Inc., for using a caricature that favored the rapper for an ad called "Shoot The Rapper."
In the ad, fans can shoot at the rapper with the click of their mouse for a chance to win prizes -- including $5,000 or five ringtones.
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