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Netflix’s new show Running Point has come under fire even before it is released. Pepperdine University, a private University in Malibu, California has filed a lawsuit against Netflix and Warner Bros. Entertainment over trademark issues.
The lawsuit states that the comedy series is using their Basketball team colors- blue and orange, and also has the same name, Waves. Other than that, the University also stated that one of the players in the show uses the number 37, which is worn by Pepperdine’s Mascot and represents the founding year of the University.
Created by Mindy Kaling, Running Point stars Kate Hudson, and follows her story when she is suddenly made the President of the family’s Basketball team called Waves.
More on this in our story.
Pepperdine University sues Netflix over resemblance issues related to Running Point
Running Point will premiere on February 27, 2025, and follows Kate Hudson’s Isla Gordon who is made the owner of the family’s pro Basketball team.
However, before its premiere, Netflix and Warner Bros. have been sued by a private University due to resemblance issues. Pepperdine University seeks legal remedy for the prevention of further use of Pepperdine’s trademarks such as the name of the Basketball team, team colors, and use of the number 37. They have also sought damages for the harm caused to their name due to the misappropriation.
In a statement, the University’s senior vice president and chief marketing officer, Sean Burnett said:
"Since its founding in 1937, Pepperdine University has established itself as a Christian University committed to academic excellence and a world-class athletics program."
He further added:
"Without our permission, Netflix continues to promote Running Point, a new series that has misappropriated our trademarked name, the Waves, our colors, blue and orange, our hometown of Los Angeles, and even the year we were founded as an institution. Given this flagrant disregard for our intellectual property and the damage to our institutional identity, together with Netflix’s and Warner Bros.’ continued refusal to resolve Pepperdine’s concerns, we believe it necessary to seek court intervention."
Netflix has not provided any official statement on the issue
The university reportedly tried to resolve the issue amicably and does not want to be associated with the show. However, Netflix and Warner Bros. have not taken any actions regarding this.
The University also voiced its concerns about Running Point’s profane themes like graphic content and nudity, that do not align with their Christian values and can cause damage to their reputation.
Netflix and Warner Bros. Entertainment have not officially responded to the lawsuit yet.
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Running Point will be available to stream on February 27, 2025, on Netflix.
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