HBO says it had the right to use U. logo in a 'Big Love' episode

Published: Saturday, July 11, 2009 1:20 a.m. MDT
 |  E-MAIL | PRINT | FONT + - 

HBO claims it had the right to use the University of Utah's name and logo in its polygamy-themed series "Big Love."

The cable channel released a statement Wednesday saying it did not violate federal law by using the U.'s red block logo and name in the March 22 episode of "Big Love."

"We are confident that nothing in the program violates anyone's rights, and HBO will be responding in due course," said HBO spokeswoman Tonya Owens.

In the episode, a U. letterhead sporting the logo and the university's name is shown on screen for about three seconds on a research lab report. Bill Henrickson, the polygamist main character, finds a fictional letter from former Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President Wilford Woodruff that legitimizes polygamy. The U. report authenticates the letter.

U. spokeswoman Coralie Alder on Tuesday said HBO never asked permission to use the logo, an act she says is in violation of federal trademark law.

The university's media agent, Collegiate Images, issued a cease-and-desist letter to HBO on Tuesday. It requested that HBO delete shots containing the name and logo from the episode and any of its reruns.

Story continues below

The cable channel's responding statement did not say whether it would remove the trademark in question. HBO attorneys will be contacting the U. about their legal options, Owens said.

University of Utah President Michael Young condemned HBO on Tuesday for using the U. logo and name without asking permission. It could lead the public to erroneously conclude that the university is associated with "Big Love" when it isn't, Young said.

e-mail: mmcfall@desnews.com

Recent comments

This isn't a "lawsuit" or a "case." The U merely sent a cease and...

Dumbies | July 19, 2009 at 8:45 p.m.

Just another example of out-of-control IP law. I certainly hope UofU...

ed | July 11, 2009 at 10:53 p.m.

What I want to know is if the BYU bookstore's ban on Boy George songs...

Free Agent  | July 11, 2009 at 6:23 p.m.

previousnext

Latest comments

RSL's Rimando makes 3

So Great!!! So Proud - Love RSL - Bring Home The CUP!!!!!

mr cannon's bold assertation that the purpose of the first ammendemnt as...

RSL heads to MLS title game

Great great great game!!!! Nicky Rimando is a god! We're the most complete...

I had the game on DVR and just watched it. That was the most exciting game...

RSL heads to MLS title game

financially cannot this year, but I will watch loyally, how great to hear...

This is hardly surprising. Bennett has a remarkable arrogance which is also...

RSL heads to MLS title game

I guess that is why "they play the game" as Herman Edwards would say.. ...

BYU happy to escape with victory

What was the score of the LSU vs LA tech game? Alot closer than you'd like to...

Has Fedor not said that THIS IS OUR YEAR all year long? Go back and...

This is just a small glimpse of the future with Obamacare: corruption, waste...

Advertisements
Advertisement