Joe Francis Threatens Lawsuit Against Madonna Over “Girls Gone Wild” Song
Sultan of sleaze Joe Francis is threatening to sue Madonna if she performs her new song called “Girls Gone Wild” at the Super Bowl tomorrow. Yes, really.
Francis, creator of the infamous Girls Gone Wild franchise, in which he films drunk girls exposing themselves on spring break, is apparently dead serious.
He has issued a cease and desist letter claiming he will take legal action against Madonna if she sings that particular song at this weekend’s festivities.
The letter (sent to Madonna, NBC Universal and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell) from Francis’ Nevada lawyer David Houston, states that:
“[Francis] became aware of Madonna’s new track based on the presales of her new album MDNA, as the #1 song on the album is ‘Girls Gone Wild.’”
“Mr. Francis and Girls Gone Wild have worked tirelessly for an excess of two decades to build his brand and to protect his trademark Girls Gone Wild.”
“Girls Gone Wild’s trade identity and trademark are both extremely valuable assets which my client must protect vigorously,” the letter continues.
The letter claims Madonna has “violated Federal and State trademark laws by making unauthorized use of Mr. Francis’ trademark Girls Gone Wild.”
For what it’s worth, it looks like she wasn’t going to sing it anyway.
Madonna’s set list reportedly includes “Give Me All Your Luvin’,” “Ray of Light” and “Vogue,” along with “Music” and “Holiday.” No GGW action.
Houston tells E! News regarding the set list, “That would be a wise choice on her part.” Good luck getting it off the album and iTunes, though.
