Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
US-based Zimbabwean comedian and social media personality Learnmore Jonasi, popularly known as Long John, says his ongoing legal battle with renowned producer and composer Lebo M has taken a significant turn after several claims against him were withdrawn.
The comedian shared the update on social media, revealing that his legal team had informed him that Lebo M had filed an amended complaint that removes all the original state law claims from the lawsuit.
According to Long John, the withdrawn claims include allegations of defamation, trade libel and intentional interference with economic advantage. He said the case will now focus entirely on federal trademark issues surrounding the phrase, “It’s a Lion.”
“My attorney has informed me that Lebo M has filed an amended complaint. He has dropped all of the original state law claims, including defamation, trade libel, and intentional interference with economic advantage,” Jonasi said.
He explained that the legal dispute has now shifted to determining whether Lebo M has trademark rights over the phrase and whether those rights outweigh constitutional protections for free expression.
“The case is now focused solely on federal trademark claims. It is interesting to see how this case has evolved. Since the original claims were dropped, the apparent focus is now on whether Lebo M has any trademark rights to ‘It’s a Lion’ that can be protected under trademark law and whether those rights are superior to my First Amendment rights,” he said.
Although surprised by the latest development, the comedian said he was prepared to allow the legal process to run its course. “While I am surprised this is the current direction of the case, I will let the courts decide,” he added.
Jonasi maintained that his content has always been created for entertainment purposes and should be interacted in the context of comedy and satire rather than as malicious attacks.
“From the beginning, my content has been comedy and satire. Those who understand my work know the context and the humour behind it,” he said.
The award-winning comedian also expressed confidence in the strength of his legal defence, saying his lawyers believe the remaining claims are without merit. “My legal team believes these remaining claims have no merit, and we will be filing a motion to dismiss. We are confident that the full context of my work and the protections for comedy and free expression under the First Amendment will speak for themselves.”
