TBS sues ABC over “Wipeout”

TBS has announced that it is suing American broadcaster ABC, claiming that the show “Wipeout” infringes on the copyrights of several Japanese programs. TBS is seeking an end to the show along with monetary damages, though a specific amount is still to be determined.

ABC premiered “Wipeout” in June, and its success in the ratings has earned it a renewal for another season. The show puts contestants through a challenging obstacle course, similar to TBS shows such as “Takeshi's Castle” in the ’80s and the still-running “SASUKE.”

Indeed, TBS claims that the show is too similar, citing infringement in several aspects, including specific obstacles, the show’s format, scene setups, and dialogue. The lawsuit also accuses ABC of capitalizing on search terms such as “MXC,” which is Spike TV’s licensed version of “Takeshi’s Castle.”

TBS is reportedly in the process of filing a separate lawsuit against Endemol USA, the production company behind “Wipeout.”

Source:
Hollywood Reporter