Shuster Estate Sues Warner Bros Over Superman Rights

The estate of Joseph Shuster, co-creator of Superman, has initiated a copyright lawsuit against Warner Bros. Discovery, asserting that the studio lacks the rights to release the upcoming Superman film in several countries, including Canada, the UK, and Australia. The lawsuit contends that under British copyright law, rights to the character reverted to Shuster's estate in 2017, 25 years after his death, and alleges that Warner Bros. has failed to pay requisite royalties for the character's use outside the U.S. The estate is seeking monetary damages and a court order to prevent Warner Bros. from depicting Superman without a license. A spokesperson for Warner Bros. has stated that the company disagrees with the lawsuit's merits and intends to defend its rights vigorously. The litigation could complicate the international distribution of the film, which is directed by James Gunn and scheduled for release in July. This legal action highlights ongoing disputes over ownership and royalties associated with iconic characters in the comic book industry.