CBS Loses Distribution Rights to “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy!”

In a significant legal ruling, CBS has been stripped of its distribution rights for two of television’s most beloved game shows, “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy!”. A Los Angeles court has declined CBS’s request for a preliminary injunction that sought to prevent Sony from assuming control over distribution.

Background of the Dispute

The conflict began when Sony, the production company behind both programs, filed a complaint in October 2024, alleging that CBS engaged in unauthorized licensing practices. Sony accused CBS of entering agreements that compromised production rights, citing below-market licensing rates and inadequate efforts to optimize advertising revenue.

CBS’s Initial Response

After these allegations, Sony took action in February by claiming control of distribution, prompting CBS to seek a restraining order that would temporarily allow it to continue distributing the shows. This legal battle escalated until this week’s decisive court ruling.

Details of the Court Ruling

Judge Kevin Brazile of the Superior Court announced that “Sony can begin distributing the shows and does not need to deliver episodes to CBS.” This ruling marks a pivotal moment for both companies as they navigate the implications for viewers and the future of the game shows.

The Appeal Process

Following the ruling, CBS Media Ventures expressed their intentions to challenge the court’s decision, stating they would immediately file an appeal. In their official statement, CBS noted, “This is only a preliminary ruling based on partial evidence, not the outcome of the full case. We’re confident that once all the evidence is heard at trial, we will prevail on the merits.”

Reactions from Sony

In contrast, Sony Pictures Television welcomed the court’s decision. They expressed satisfaction with the ruling, stating, “We look forward to distributing our shows, Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune, to the 200+ stations that license and count on this programming in the U.S. and around the world, and the millions of fans who tune in to these beloved game shows every week.”

Conclusion

The court’s decision not only represents a shift in the distribution landscape for these iconic shows but also underscores the complexities of media rights and licensing agreements in television. As CBS prepares to appeal, the outcome of this conflict could shape the future of broadcast television partnerships.