Bunjiwe Mkwananzi
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi has revealed that his legal battle with South African composer Lebo M has taken a new turn, with the case now centred solely on federal trademark claims.
The dispute stems from a series of viral comedy skits in which Jonasi humorously mimicked the iconic opening chant from Disney’s The Lion King, famously associated with Lebo M.
His catchphrase, “It’s a Lion”, became a social media sensation, attracting millions of views and inspiring countless memes and user-generated content.
Lebo M had filed a lawsuit in the United States, alleging that Jonasi had unlawfully used elements associated with his internationally recognised brand.
The original complaint included claims of defamation, trade libel, intentional interference with economic advantage and trademark infringement.
However, Jonasi says the case has now taken a different direction.
“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. 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,” said Jonasi.
The comedian has maintained that his content falls within the realm of comedy and satire and is therefore protected under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.
“From the beginning, my content has been comedy and satire. Those who understand my work know the context and the humour behind it. My legal team believes these remaining claims have no merit, and we will be filing a motion to dismiss,” he said.
The matter remains before the court, where the central issue is now expected to be whether Lebo M has enforceable trademark rights over the phrase “It’s a Lion” and, if so, whether those rights outweigh Jonasi’s constitutional protections for parody and free expression.
Online Reporter