Eminem is currently entangled in a trademark dispute with “Real Housewives of Potomac” stars Gizelle Bryant and Robyn Dixon. The conflict arose after Bryant and Dixon filed a trademark application for their podcast, “Reasonably Shady.” The situation escalated as they accused Eminem of harassment during the ongoing deposition process.
Trademark Dispute Details
The dispute centers around the trademark application filed by Bryant and Dixon in February 2023. This application includes provisions for their podcast, which features entertainment services and products like apparel, makeup, and home goods.
Eminem’s Concerns
Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Bruce Mathers III, expressed concerns about potential brand confusion. He claimed that allowing the trademark would damage his brand, arguing that consumers associate him with names like “Slim Shady” and “Shady.” He holds the trademark for “Shady” in merchandise categories, reinforcing his position.
Deposition Challenges
- Scheduled Dates: The deposition has been challenging to schedule. An agreement was reached for October 29.
- Timing Issues: Bryant and Dixon proposed an 11 a.m. ET start time, but Eminem suggested 2 p.m. ET instead.
- Duration Limitations: His attorney indicated that the deposition should not exceed two hours.
Claims of Harassment
Bryant and Dixon accused Eminem of creating obstacles throughout the scheduling process. They characterized his reluctance as a “take-it-or-leave-it” attitude, suggesting a lack of good faith in the negotiation.
Eminem’s response claimed that the insistence on a filing motion due to the three-hour start-time difference indicated Bryant and Dixon aims to harass him rather than conduct a fair deposition.
Ongoing Proceedings
The case has been progressing since February 2023, with Bryant and Dixon vowing to defend their right to the “Reasonably Shady” trademark. They firmly deny any potential confusion between their brand and Eminem’s trademarks. Their attorney reassured the public that they are prepared to defend against any claims regarding intellectual property violations.
This dispute not only highlights the complexities of trademark law but also underscores the potential challenges that celebrities face when their brands intersect.
