Estate Of Dr Seuss Sues Town For Whoville-Themed Christmas
Posted November 26, 2008 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
But the lawyers were certainly active, shutting down Christmas cheer in a Kentucky city that shared its moniker with a book closely with the season.
In a move akin to Disney claiming royalties for the song “Happy Birthday,” representatives of Dr. Seuss Enterprises shut down a small town’s holiday celebrations – because they dared to have a whimsical theme.
Louisville becomes LouWhoVille every year, using the iconic village and characters from “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” as part of its display.
But that won’t be the case in 2008 after the mayor received a cease-and-desist letter from Theodor Geisel’s estate.
“These lawyers’ hearts are two sizes too small,” joked Jerry Abramson – but it was only partly in jest.
Cindy Lou Hou and the Grinch himself will not be making their customary appearances this year, because, as the company says, they are copyrighted and cannot be used without permission.
As yet, they have no plans to steal the presents.
The Grinch, played by Jim Carrey, in the live-action adaptation. Photo by Getty Images.
