February 10, 2009
Original Village People member sues group
David Foucher READ TIME: 1 MIN.
The Village People's first cop wants a revamped version of the group to stop using his likeness and voice.
The lawsuit filed last week in San Diego by Victor Willis claims companies continue to use his voice and picture to promote the new Village People. He is seeking at least $1 million and a judge's order that they can no longer use his image or voice.
Willis was the original police officer in the group and helped pen the Village People's greatest hits, including "Y.M.C.A" and "Macho Man."
He is suing Sixuvus Ltd., a New York company that promotes the new Village People. He's also suing the William Morris Agency as well as Can't Stop Productions - which owns the trademark to the band's name - and several venues where the new group has performed.
Phone messages and e-mail sent seeking comment from the companies were not immediately returned Monday.
David Foucher is the CEO of the EDGE Media Network and Pride Labs LLC, is a member of the National Lesbian & Gay Journalist Association, and is accredited with the Online Society of Film Critics. David lives with his daughter in Dedham MA.
