An appeals court has temporarily blocked Sony from taking over distribution of syndicated game shows Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune from CBS.
California’s Second Appellate District on Thursday paused a Los Angeles judge’s ruling last week denying CBS’s bid for a preliminary injunction, allowing the network to continue distributing the shows. That order is “stayed pending further order of this court,” a three-judge panel ruled.
Sony produces the two long-running shows, which are perennially among the most watched syndicated programs on broadcast TV. In February, Sony took over CBS’ role as a distributor after claiming that the network breached its contract by entering into unauthorized licensing agreements. CBS later filed for a restraining order seeking to keep the terms of the deal in place, which was granted.
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But on Thursday, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Kevin Brazile denied CBS’ bid for a court order that would’ve temporarily blocked Sony’s efforts from assuming distribution. CBS immediately appealed, which was granted.
At the heart of the lawsuit: allegations that CBS licensed the shows at below-market rates, failed to maximize advertising revenue and has overall rendered itself incapable of living up to its end of the agreement with Sony by implementing far-reaching layoffs that have allegedly decimated teams responsible for the shows’ distribution, marketing and advertising sales.
CBS declined to comment, while Sony didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.