Sony Gains Control of 'Jeopardy!', 'Wheel of Fortune' Amid CBS Legal Dispute

A Los Angeles Superior Court judge ruled that Sony Pictures Television can take over the distribution of the popular game shows 'Jeopardy!' and 'Wheel of Fortune' from CBS, marking a significant shift in the television landscape. The ruling follows Sony's allegations that CBS breached their distribution agreement by entering unauthorized licensing deals and failing to maximize advertising revenue. CBS plans to appeal the decision, insisting that the ruling is preliminary and that they will prevail once all evidence is presented at trial. The judge noted that CBS's bundling practices could pose a conflict of interest, while CBS maintains that Sony's claims stem from dissatisfaction with the original deal. This legal battle began when Sony terminated its distribution agreement with CBS in August 2024, leading to a series of lawsuits from both parties. As the appeal process unfolds, the future of these iconic shows hangs in the balance, with potential implications for the broader game show distribution landscape.