By Matthew B. HarrisonTALKERS VP/Associate PublisherHarrison Media Law, Senior PartnerGoodphone Communications, Executive Producer A radio (or video podcast) host grabs a viral clip, tosses in some sharp commentary, and shares it online. The goal? Make some noise. The result? A takedown notice for copyright infringement – and then a letter threatening a defamation suit. Sound […]
The Soundbite Trap: How Editing in Radio and Podcasting Creates Legal Risk
By Matthew B. HarrisonTALKERS, VP/Associate PublisherHarrison Media Law, Senior PartnerGoodphone Communications, Executive Producer In radio and podcasting, editing isn’t just technical – it shapes narratives and influences audiences. Whether trimming dead air, tightening a guest’s comment, or pulling a clip for social media, every cut leaves an impression. But here’s the legal reality: editing also creates risk. […]
Jimmy Kimmel’s Fair Use Victory: What It Means for Content Creators
By Matthew B. Harrison TALKERS, VP/Associate Publisher Harrison Media Law, Senior Partner Goodphone Communications, Executive Producer In a recent high-profile case, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel successfully defended himself against a copyright infringement lawsuit brought by former congressman George Santos. The case, which centered on Kimmel’s use of prank videos involving Santos, highlights the ongoing importance […]
Fair Use or Foul Play? Lessons from “Equals Three”
By Matthew B. HarrisonTALKERS, VP/Associate PublisherHarrison Media Law, Senior PartnerGoodphone Communications, Executive Producer In the ever-evolving landscape of digital media, creators often walk a fine line between inspiration and infringement. The 2015 case of Equals Three, LLC v. Jukin Media, Inc. offers a cautionary tale for anyone producing reaction videos or commentary-based content: fair use […]
Fair Game, Not Free Game: Navigating the Limits of Fair Use
By Matthew B. HarrisonTALKERS, VP/Associate PublisherHarrison Media Law, Senior PartnerGoodphone Communications, Executive Producer In 2016, YouTubers Ethan and Hila Klein of H3h3 Productions were sued by Matt Hosseinzadeh for copyright infringement after they used portions of his video in their reaction content. The court ruled in their favor, emphasizing that their use was transformative, added […]