Former Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega just sued Activision Blizzard for using his likeness in “Call Of Duty: Black Ops II,” thus harming his stellar reputation (despite his convictions for drug trafficking and murder). This isn’t the first time a famous person has sued a video game company over a digital representation. In fact, Noriega joins an interesting mix of celebs who’ve gone to court to get themselves ejected from consoles…
1. Lindsay Lohan
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LiLo recently sued Rockstar Games and Take Two-Interactive for their “Grand Theft Auto V” character Lacey Jonas, whom she believes is a direct reference to her. Despite her past indiscretions, Lohan apparently has no sympathy for people looking to steal her image.
2. Karen Gravano
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It’s rare to hear people with mafia ties seeking out the courtroom, but that’s what happened when “Mob Wives” star Karen Gravano sued “Grand Theft Auto V” for allegedly basing a character off of her. She’s seeking $40 million in damages, an offer they’re likely to refuse.
3. Michael “Shagg” Washington
Cypress Hill backup singer Michael “Shagg” Washington tried to score a quarter…billion dollars from Rockstar Games in his 2010 lawsuit over his likeness supposedly being used in “Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.” The court basically ruled him insane in the membrane and dismissed it.
4. Bill Russell
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Former NBA big man Bill Russell sued Electronic Arts for allegedly boxing him out of profits by using his image in their “Tournament Of Legends” game.
5. Jim Brown
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Jim Brown is one of the greatest running backs of all time, and was known for truck-sticking the competition. However, Electronic Arts gave him a stiff arm when the courts rejected his lawsuit over his alleged inclusion in “Madden NFL 09.”
6. Axl Rose
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Axl Rose has seen his share of lawsuits, so it’s no surprise to see his name on the list. Rose claimed that Activision agreed not to include Slash when he licensed “Welcome To The Jungle” for “Guitar Hero III.” Remember when it was about the music, Axl?
7. No Doubt
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Did you know there have been lawsuits filed over avatars? That was just the case when No Doubt let their voice be heard by taking legal action against Activision because players could make them appear to play songs by other artists. Gwen sings her own material!
Sean Green
Sean Green is a Los Angeles based stand up comedian and co-host of the Sports Gambling Podcast.
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