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Copyright in the Spotlight: From 50 Cent to Crumbl Cookies, Who Owns the Rights?

Copyright in the Spotlight: From 50 Cent to Crumbl Cookies, Who Owns the Rights?

This week, two high-profile lawsuits are drawing attention to copyright enforcement in entertainment and brand marketing. 50 Cent is suing to block the release of SkillHouse, claiming the producers used his likeness without payment or permission. Meanwhile, Warner Music Group is going after Crumbl Cookies for allegedly using over 150 songs in social media promotions without a license. For artists, influencers, and businesses alike, these cases are a sharp reminder: in today’s content-driven world, owning the rights—or using them correctly—can mean everything.

ChaseLawyers Newsletter
April 29, 2025

Hi there,

In this edition, we’re spotlighting two headline-making copyright lawsuits that show just how critical rights ownership has become in entertainment and digital marketing.

Rapper and producer 50 Cent is suing to block the release of SkillHouse, a horror film he stars in—claiming the producers used his name and likeness without a finalized contract or proper compensation. His case puts a spotlight on how talent agreements and image rights are enforced in the film industry.

At the same time, Warner Music Group is taking Crumbl Cookies to court, alleging the brand used over 150 copyrighted songs in TikTok and Instagram content without permission. It’s a $24 million lawsuit that reminds creators and businesses alike: music licensing matters, even on social media.

50 Cent Sues to Block SkillHouse Release

Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has filed a lawsuit to stop the release of SkillHouse, alleging producers used his name and likeness without finalizing a contract or paying him. The case centers on trademark misuse and unfair competition—raising broader questions about IP rights and image control in film marketing. As disputes over likeness usage grow, this lawsuit could shape how creators protect their personal brand in media projects.

Warner Music Group Sues Crumbl Cookies for Copyright Infringement

Warner Music Group is suing Crumbl Cookies for allegedly using over 150 songs—including tracks by top artists like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift—on social media without proper licenses. The $24 million lawsuit underscores the risks brands face when using copyrighted music in marketing. For businesses leveraging platforms like TikTok, it’s a sharp reminder: even brief clips of popular songs require permission.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

50 Cent Sues To Block SkillHouse Release

50 Cent is suing to stop SkillHouse from hitting theaters, claiming producers used his name and image without a signed deal or payment. The case spotlights the legal risks of using celebrity likenesses without clear contracts.

Warner Music Group files over $20 million lawsuit against Crumbl Cookies

Warner Music Group has filed a $24M lawsuit against Crumbl Cookies for using hit songs in social media videos without proper licenses. The dispute could set new standards for music use in brand marketing.

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Barry Chase, Esq. is an honors graduate of Yale College and Harvard Law School, and the founding partner of ChaseLawyers®. In addition to his entertainment attorney legal practice, Mr. Chase lectures regularly on the representation of media personalities, the legal “do’s and don’ts” of music, television, and film production, and the intricacies of film rights option agreements.

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