Do You Have to Get Permission to Mention a Celebrity’s Name in a Film?

Celebrities go through a lot to brand themselves and their names. In doing so, even something like using their name in a film could have repercussions, but do you have to get permission to mention a celebrity’s name in a film?

If you’re interested in using real people as inspiration in your filmmaking you’ll have to understand how the laws work. But in using a celebrity’s name, the rules and regulations may vary a bit.

Using a Name in a Film is Generally Safe

Generally speaking, if you want to use a celebrity’s name in a film? If it’s just stating the name, you’ll be okay. Rarely is a name copyrighted.

Unless it is a nickname or some kind of stage name that has been branded in which case you might have a little bit of an uphill battle if you intend to use the name in a film.

The true question

Whether or not permission is required to mention a celebrity’s name in a film. The question is, how will you use the name?

If you intend to use the celebrity’s name in your film title, or in a way that goes along with the branding of your film. Such that the use of the name could result in others thinking that the celebrity in some how endorses your film.

There could be some grey area which might get you into trouble if you don’t have permission. 

Single Use

However, if you intend to solely mention a celebrity’s name in a film, such as a single line that mentions a celebrity name, then in most cases, you will NOT need permission.

When you ask “Do you have to get permission to mention a celebrity’s name in a film?” The answer is generally, NO!

Slander or Defamatory Actions Could Get You Into Trouble

There are instances in which the use of a celebrity’s name in a film could result in your getting into some trouble. For example! If you use a celebrity’s name in a film. And then you slander them in some way or speak poorly about the celebrity. You could face some legal challenges.

Any person, including public figures and celebrities, can sue you for libel if you tamper with the individual’s reputation in your film. Be it by ridiculing them or otherwise making accusations that the celebrity might claim were slander.

Effects on Reputation

Likewise, you could face a defamation lawsuit if you in any way damage the reputation of the individual in your film.

We look at the question, “Do you have to get permission to mention a celebrity’s name in a film?” There are two types of defamatory actions which might be brought up by a celebrity in a court of law.

These include libel which references a defamatory statement that is written. And slander which represents a defamation statement that is verbally introduced.

The Reputation as a Brand

Many celebrities consider their reputation part of their brand image. It’s important for them to protect their image, and thus protect their brand. 

If they feel like you have in any way jeopardized their brand, or their image, there is a risk that they will file a lawsuit against you. So, do you have to get permission to mention a celebrity’s name in a film?

Technically, no. But you could face some legal challenges if the celebrity finds your mention of them to be in any way jeopardizing their brand. Therefore you should consider asking permission in advance – always!