can i use an old sitcom character's name and image on t-shirts I'm selling?

Question

we will be selling clothing with somewhat of a parody of an old sitcom character and need to know what to do about copyright, trademark laws

Answer 1

Not for profit you can't.

I did a quick search, and all I got was this site. It looks pretty dry and full of legaleeze stuff. You would probably need an attorney to sift through it.

http://www.copyright.gov/title17/

Might be better to do a real parody. You know, get someone to dress up like the character, then give a similar name. Like if you were doing a parody of say Archie Bunker, then take a pic of someone looking similar to him and give him the name of like: Startchie Blunker I don't know what I'm talking about do I?

Answer 2

I think you need the copyrights too whatever character it is that you plan on using. I suggest contacting the network that ran or runs the show before you sell these t-shirts. Also, talk to a lawyer first too and see what they think.
Take Care,
Cindy
xoxo

Answer 3

It may violate the actor's right to profit from his/her likeness. Even if you call it a parody, there may be issues there. Can't really tell without knowing the parameters of your situation in greater detail.

Answer 4

Check with a copyright attorney (entertainment attorney).

Answer 5

look on the internet about it. make sure whatever it is isn't copyrighted, stuff like that.

Answer 6

don't do it! SOMEONE owns the rights. look on imdb.com and search for the sitcom or actor's name.

Answer 7

It isn't your work. You need permission, otherwise it's copyright infringement.

Answer 8

I'm not sure........people use slang from tv shows that are around today,meaning still on air.But I'm not sure what to tell you.

Answer 9

not without paying the rights first.