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There are an estimated 30,000 Elvis impersonator's
performing on stage. And that's in America alone. There's no telling how
many more Elvis impersonator's walk the face of the earth.
However, that could all change. At least for the more popular ones, or
the ones earning their living from it. This is due to billionaire Robert
Sillerman. Robert FX Sillerman bought in 85% stake in Elvis Presley
Enterprises. Elvis Presley Enterprises was previously run by Elvis
Presley's family. Billionaire Robert Sillerman paid a walloping $114
million price for Elvis Presley Enterprises.
Though the Presley's previously chose not to bicker about Elvis
impersonators, this could all change in the future. Elvis impersonators
could be forced to give up what they're doing if this New York
billionaire chooses to press the subject legally. The New York
businessman has complete rights to Elvis' name and likeness. Robert
Sillerman also owns the television show American Idol.
Just how serious is Robert Sillerman at pressing this issue and forcing
Elvis impersonators out of business?
It's hard to say at this point in time. However, speaking to the New
York Times, Sillerman reported that he is planning to open an Elvis
exhibit and Elvis themed cabaret show in Las Vegas. He stated that if he
was planning on opening a show based on Elvis impersonators, then
"obviously it wouldn't make sense to have unauthorized Elvis
impersonators."
This could be the end of the road for Elvis impersonators all-around
America. I'm just trying to visualize what would become of Elvis
impersonators if this issue is pressed legally and Mr. Sillerman gets
his way in court.
Let's imagine a judge ordering all Elvis unauthorized Elvis
impersonators to "Cease and Desist" their order of business.
Some Elvis impersonators would stop, many would continue. Can you
imagine law-enforcement officials, perhaps SWAT teams, maybe from the
Department Of Home Defense, breaking in taverns and theaters, nightclubs
and bars, arresting Elvis impersonators on the spot. Maybe they would
arrest and take away the audience and fans alike.
I can just imagine all forms of Elvis' in jail, singing and dancing. All
because they broke the law by using Elvis' likeness on stage.
I'm trying to visualize an Elvis impersonator being handcuffed and taken
away in the paddy wagon. His dyed black year and shiny rhinestoned jump
suit would reflect off of the flashing blue lights. Surely the Elvis
would need his sunglasses. But seriously, would there be secret
underground Elvis shows? I'm sure there would be.
On the other hand, try and visualize an Elvis impersonator who is
authorized by Robert Sillerman. As the police come to take him away,
perhaps he would present a card issued to him, stamped with the seal of
approval, as an "authorized Elvis impersonator."
It sounds funny, or least very strange. Most would say it would not come
to that. But it might. Stranger things have happened previously in our
judicial system.
You might have to write your law makers, or legislator and inform them
you would like them to leave all Elvis impersonators alone. Perhaps you
would like a law passed outlawing unauthorized Elvis(es), or Elvi
(plural for "many Elvis').
Funny? Maybe. |
