Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune are a pair of beloved game shows, with the latter being home to some hilarious contestant blunders. However, behind the curtain, a bitter feud has erupted between two massive conglomerates over distribution rights.
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Sony Pictures Television produces both TV shows and has done so since 1994. Per a report by FormatBiz, Sony acquired Merv Griffin Enterprises at that time. The row between Sony and CBS isn't about production. Instead, it's about distribution rights, with both companies saying they are in the right.
As it stands, CBS distributes Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune and has done so since 1983. According to Hollywood Reporter, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Kevin Brazile granted CBS a temporary restraining order (TRO) against Sony on February 6. The TRO is blocking Sony from assuming distribution rights for both shows.
It's a little tricky to determine who is in "the right," but Sony filed the first lawsuit in October last year. Per Hollywood Reporter, Sony sued CBS for a breach of contract, stating CBS "has been egregiously undercutting the value and profitability of these shows in favor of its own self-interest."
CBS fired back with a lawsuit against Sony, alleging that Sony is attempting to bypass long-standing agreements and effectively acquire distribution rights for free.
What Does The Lawsuit Mean For Jeopardy! And Wheel Of Fortune?
We can't say for sure what will happen if Sony gains distribution rights for the shows, but nothing will happen for now. The TRO against Sony ensures that things will stay as they are, and CBS continues distributing.
Per Hollywood Reporter, a spokesperson for CBS gave the following statement:
"We're pleased the court issued a temporary restraining order against Sony's unlawful actions. We will continue to seamlessly distribute Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! to our station clients as we have for over 40 years."
Per FormatBiz, Sony also released a statement maintaining that the company acted lawfully:
"Sony Pictures owns, controls, produces, and finances Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune. Due to CBS's continued failure to fulfill its contractual obligations, SPT (Sony Pictures Television) believes it has lawfully terminated its distribution agreements with CBS and has assumed all global distribution functions."
The outlet also explains that the TRO will remain in effect until at least February 18. At that time, the judge will hold a conference to decide whether the TRO will become a permanent one.
