Great article. Coincidentally I just stumbled on this.
Apple engineers code-named a new Mac model “Carl Sagan”, to joke about the “billions and billions" in sales they hoped it would generate.
Sagan sent them a 'cease and desist' letter, on the basis the use of his name could be perceived as an endorsement.
Then they renamed it“BHA” (“Butt-Head Astronomer"), so Sagan sued for libel. But he lost, on the basis that Apple’s jibe was satirical.
The parties eventually settled. Not sure what the lesson is here but presumably Carl was too smart to try channelling Rihanna: I can't imagine the market embracing 'Butt-Head Astronomer' perfume or after shave.
Ha! What a story — and such a perfect reminder that even the smartest minds can find themselves navigating the wild world of IP. It’s fascinating how satire, names, and branding collide in ways that shape not just legal outcomes but cultural moments too.
Thank you for sharing this — “Butt-Head Astronomer” definitely wouldn’t have made it past the trademark office.
Brilliant breakdown. Most people spend years building the story and forget the signature. Ownership isn’t just about ideas, it’s about identity. Love how you make the legal side feel like legacy work.
Great article. Coincidentally I just stumbled on this.
Apple engineers code-named a new Mac model “Carl Sagan”, to joke about the “billions and billions" in sales they hoped it would generate.
Sagan sent them a 'cease and desist' letter, on the basis the use of his name could be perceived as an endorsement.
Then they renamed it“BHA” (“Butt-Head Astronomer"), so Sagan sued for libel. But he lost, on the basis that Apple’s jibe was satirical.
The parties eventually settled. Not sure what the lesson is here but presumably Carl was too smart to try channelling Rihanna: I can't imagine the market embracing 'Butt-Head Astronomer' perfume or after shave.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Litigation_involving_Apple_Inc.
Ha! What a story — and such a perfect reminder that even the smartest minds can find themselves navigating the wild world of IP. It’s fascinating how satire, names, and branding collide in ways that shape not just legal outcomes but cultural moments too.
Thank you for sharing this — “Butt-Head Astronomer” definitely wouldn’t have made it past the trademark office.
I’m exhausted I’ll be back in the am
Gn everyone n ty 💯❤️
Brilliant breakdown. Most people spend years building the story and forget the signature. Ownership isn’t just about ideas, it’s about identity. Love how you make the legal side feel like legacy work.