Devo File Lawsuit Against McDonalds Over American Idol Happy Meal Figure

They claim it breaches copyright...

by Jason Gregory
Thursday, June 26, 2008

Devo File Lawsuit Against McDonalds Over American Idol Happy Meal Figure

Devo are suing the fast-food giant McDonalds over a Happy Meal figure that they claim breaches copyright.

The band, whose were pioneers of wave music, believe the company's recent New Wave Nigel figure sports a flower pot hat which is reminiscent of their look in the 1970s.

In a message on their website, the band also claimed that New Wave Nigel emitted a “Devo-esque song”.

Devo's classic flower pot hat, which was known as the Energy Dome, was designed by bassist Gerald Casale.

According to the Australian Associated Press, Casale is quoted as saying that McDonald's didn't approach the band before the figure launched in April.

"Plus, we don't like McDonald's, and we don't like American Idol, so we're doubly offended,” Casale added.

New Wave Nigel was part of a line of action figures, which also included Disco Dave, Country Clay, Rockin' Riley and Soulful Selma, that were used to promote American Idol.

What do you think? Have the band got a case? Leave your thoughts below.

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(5)

How can I say if they have a case without seeing the offending bloody figure?
~ by Gav 6/27/2008
http://modculture.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/2008/06/27/devo_toy.jpg
~ by Hav 6/27/2008
Better not wear a turtle-neck sweater, or they’ll sue you too. I think their stupid hat looks like the Japanese latern I cunt in half and wore as a hat in the 60s. Do they think I have a case? Jerks.
~ by ge 6/28/2008
I think they have a case, was their idea in the first place. Screw McD’s and AI. Just another example of big corporations thinking copyright and trademark laws only apply when someone steals something from them. You’’d have to be a jerk to side with McD or AI. How are the band members jerks...jerk.
~ by foad 6/30/2008
Plus, we don’t like McDonald’’s, and we don’’t like American Idol, so we’’re doubly offended,” Casale added. That’’s absolutely hilarious! Go devo!
~ by whipitgood 7/1/2008