California Court Restores CBS Distribution Rights to Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune Amid Sony Lawsuit

CBS and Sony are embroiled in a legal battle over the distribution rights of the iconic game shows Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune. Sony filed a breach-of-contract lawsuit against CBS, alleging unauthorized licensing deals and financial misconduct, while CBS countersued, asserting it retains perpetual distribution rights based on longstanding agreements dating back to the 1980s. A recent appellate court ruling has temporarily restored CBS's exclusive distribution rights, staying a previous decision that allowed Sony to distribute the shows independently. This ruling means CBS will continue to distribute episodes during the ongoing lawsuit, though the dispute remains unresolved. CBS argues that Sony lacks the legal authority to sever ties unilaterally, and Sony contends CBS's handling of the shows has been hindered by internal budget cuts and mismanagement. The outcome of this dispute will have significant implications for the future broadcasting and licensing of these popular programs.