Using Likeness

[cerebraldebris]

Anyone here know the basic legalities behind using someone's likeness in print?
For instance, a character of say Hitlery?

[Lubbock]

Do you mean a Caricature? Or an actual photograph?

Caricatures are the stock-and-trade of political cartoonists.

I think if it's a "public figure," as in entertainer or politican, you're "safe" with a caricature or photograph.

If it's your neighbor whom you jerk out of obscurity and plaster a caricature or photograph of him on a billboard, or the supplement section of the Sunday newspaper, with a defamatory message attached, you will prpbably get your ass sued off.

You're might safe it it's the mayor of your town, but I don't think you could get away with it if it's a checker at the local grocery store or your kid's Little League coach.

Why the question?

[cerebraldebris]

Yes, a caricature. More along the lines of cartoon style.
It's an idea I'm working on involving big names. The usual suspects: Clinton, Pelosi, Reid, etc.

[Lubbock]

Then I think you're safe.

Since Larry Flint got away with what he did to Jerry Fallwell in caricature, I think all bets are off when it comes to "big names." That was about as bad as it gets.

The sky's the limit.

Go for it.

[cerebraldebris]

:thumb: Thanks!
I appreciate the feedback.