Marvel and DC Lost Their Joint Trademark on ‘Super Hero’

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As a gamer with over two decades of comic book-inspired gaming experiences under my belt, this recent turn of events has left me both astounded and exhilarated. The idea that the term “Super Hero” is now in the public domain feels like unlocking an unexpected secret level in a game I’ve been playing for years.

A recent Marvel and DC collaboration, a crossover event, occurred that neither company appears to be pleased with. Notably, the U.S. Trademark Office has revoked their shared rights to the phrase “Super Hero.

According to Reuters, a US Trademark Office tribunal decided against Disney and Warner Bros because neither company responded to an official request. This was in response to a challenge made by the small London-based firm Superbabies over the long-standing ownership of “Super Hero.” Since neither Marvel nor DC replied to the petition by the July 24, 2024 deadline, the Trademark Office sided with artist S.J. Richold and Superbabies Ltd., effectively transferring the term “Super Hero” into the public domain.

In a press statement, Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg, legal representatives for Richold and Superbabies, revealed that they submitted their initial claim following Disney and Warner Bros.’ attempts to impede the artist’s efforts to publicize his business. The law firm declared victory in the case by tracing the evolution of SUPER HERO trademarks and demonstrating how Marvel and DC utilized these marks to suppress competition and displace small and independent comic creators.

As a fervent admirer, I can’t help but express my excitement! RJLF’s work paves the way for countless creators like myself who dream of crafting tales about extraordinary beings. In his words, “Securing this outcome isn’t merely a triumph for our client; it’s a testament to creativity and groundbreaking ideas.” Adam Adler, the lead attorney, put it brilliantly when he said, “We’ve not only won for our client but for the spirit of innovation. By establishing SUPER HEROES as a public domain symbol, we ensure its enduring presence as a beacon of heroism accessible to all storytellers.

For Marvel and DC, this implies they’ll remain colossal earnings titans, ruling the comic book realm for quite some time. However, they won’t bully or intimidate others attempting to join the superhero scene.

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2024-09-30 22:32