Lawsuit targeting SeaWorld raises questions about future of Sesame Place San Diego

Sesame Workshop has filed a lawsuit against SeaWorld, alleging repeated failures to meet contractual obligations over a 45-year partnership. The suit cites unpaid royalties, totaling $11 million awarded in a previous ruling, and the unexpected closure of Sesame Place San Diego during the off-season. Sesame Workshop claims SeaWorld is also damaging the Sesame Street brand through these actions and by sending unapproved marketing materials.

The dispute escalated when SeaWorld accused Sesame Workshop of failing to invest in its brand, a claim Sesame Workshop deemed “preposterous” given their recent deal with Netflix. Sesame Workshop asserts that SeaWorld has been profiting from their intellectual property without proper compliance with the licensing agreement.

This legal battle mirrors a previous dispute between SeaWorld and the city of San Diego over unpaid rent, and comes at a time when SeaWorld is still recovering from pandemic-related attendance declines and the negative impact of the documentary “Blackfish.” SeaWorld maintains they will address the allegations in court and that Sesame Place San Diego will open as scheduled.

(Source：Blooloop)