Devendra Kumar
George Santos, a former US House of Representatives member, has filed a lawsuit against late-night TV host Jimmy Kimmel, ABC, and Walt Disney Co. alleging that Kimmel deceived him into creating personalized videos that were used to ridicule him on his show. Santos claims that Kimmel misrepresented himself, using fake names and narratives to request videos on the Cameo video app, which Santos had received requests from individuals and businesses to create. The videos, part of a segment called “Will Santos Say It?” on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, featured Santos congratulating the winner of a beef-eating contest and praising the feat as “amazing and impressive.”
According to Santos’ lawyer, Robert Fantone, Kimmel’s fake requests were a clear violation of copyright law. Santos is seeking compensation for the unauthorized use of his image and likeness, alleging copyright infringement, fraudulent inducement, breach of contract, and unjust enrichment. The lawsuit claims that Kimmel’s actions were a violation of Santos’ rights, and that he is entitled to damages for the unauthorized use of his image and likeness.
Santos’ lawsuit is an attempt to recoup damages for the unauthorized use of his image and likeness, and to hold Kimmel and the other defendants accountable for their actions. Santos has a history of controversy, having faced criminal charges including allegations of fraud, lying to Congress about his wealth, receiving unemployment benefits while employed, and using campaign contributions to pay for personal expenses. He also allegedly made unauthorized charges on credit cards belonging to some of his donors. Santos pleaded not guilty to a revised indictment in October.
The lawsuit will likely spark further debate about the boundaries of humor and respect in public figures. While Kimmel’s actions may have been intended to be humorous, they have potentially serious consequences for Santos. The outcome of the lawsuit remains to be seen, but it is clear that Santos is determined to seek justice for what he claims is a violation of his rights.