A recent ruling by a state appeals court has put a temporary halt to Sony Pictures TV’s attempt to take control of the distribution rights for the popular game shows “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy.” The three-judge appellate panel reversed a previous decision that would have given Sony Pictures control over the sales and distribution rights, which have been shared between Sony and CBS since CBS acquired King World Productions in 2000.
Sony Pictures acquired “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy” through its purchase of Merv Griffin Entertainment in 1986. Merv Griffin, the creator of both shows, had signed a perpetual distribution agreement with King World Productions in the 1980s, with Sony now controlling production and CBS handling sales and distribution to over 150 TV stations that air the shows.
Both “Jeopardy” and “Wheel of Fortune” have been staples of early evening television since the 1980s. However, Sony Pictures has accused CBS of breaching the distribution agreement by overstepping its rights, while CBS has countered by accusing Sony of attempting to alter the terms of the deal for financial gain.
The appellate court’s ruling has stayed the lower court’s decision to allow Sony to take over distribution and sales operations, requiring Sony to file an appeal by April 28 and CBS to respond by May 9. This decision prevents Sony from halting the delivery of new episodes to CBS for distribution to affiliate stations, at least for the time being.
Both CBS and Sony Pictures have chosen not to comment on the ongoing legal battle. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
