[post_page_title]Merchan-dicey[/post_page_title]
Merchandise tends to follow the success of a property like night follows day, so it’s to be somewhat expected. However, you have to ask permission first. In 2011, Donna Douglas sued the Mattel corporation for their release of a Barbie based on Elly May from ‘The Beverly Hillbillies’.
The main point of contention for Douglas was the company had used her likeness – and a picture of her on the packaging – without her permission. The case was eventually settled out of court.
