Nick Cannon and Zeus Network Face Lawsuit From Viacom Over Wild ‘N Out Copycat Claims
Nick Cannon and Zeus Network are in legal trouble after Viacom International Inc. filed a lawsuit accusing them of stealing intellectual property from the iconic MTV series Wild ‘N Out. The lawsuit centers around Zeus Network’s show Bad vs. Wild, which Viacom alleges is a blatant copy of Wild ‘N Out.
Viacom’s legal representative, attorney George W. Kroup, claims that Zeus intentionally replicated key elements of Wild ‘N Out to create Bad vs. Wild. “Zeus intentionally copied elements of Wild ‘N Out in developing Bad vs. Wild, knowing that those acts constituted infringements of Viacom’s copyrights,” Kroup stated in a report by AllHipHop.
Adding to the controversy, Cannon—who has been the longtime host and face of Wild ‘N Out—is accused of violating his contract with Viacom by collaborating with Zeus. Kroup argued, “Zeus has caused Mr. Cannon to violate his written agreement related to Wild ‘N Out,” emphasizing the damage caused by what he describes as Zeus’s “unoriginal content and colorist and sizeist stereotyping.”
A Copycat Show?
Viacom’s lawsuit highlights several ways in which Bad vs. Wild allegedly mimics Wild ‘N Out. The company accuses Zeus of directly marketing the show as “Wild ‘N Out on steroids” and poaching cast and crew members from the original series. The lawsuit also references negative publicity stemming from controversial moments in Bad vs. Wild as further proof of the alleged harm caused to Viacom’s brand.
Viacom is seeking a permanent injunction to halt the production and distribution of Bad vs. Wild, as well as financial damages, including treble damages for willful infringement.
No Response Yet From Cannon or Zeus Network
As of now, neither Nick Cannon nor Zeus Network has publicly responded to the allegations. However, this legal battle could have significant ramifications for both parties, especially given Cannon’s longstanding association with Wild ‘N Out.
Nick Cannon’s Recent Headlines
Beyond the lawsuit, Cannon recently made waves in pop culture for unrelated reasons. During an interview on his We Playin’ Spades podcast with Ray J, the two reflected on Cannon’s 2002 cult-classic film Drumline. Ray J revealed he had originally auditioned for the lead role but ultimately lost it to Cannon.
This lawsuit and Cannon’s involvement with Bad vs. Wild have put the multi-hyphenate entertainer back in the spotlight—but not without controversy. Fans and critics alike are closely watching to see how this legal battle unfolds and whether it will impact the future of Wild ‘N Out or Cannon’s career.
What’s Next?
With Viacom seeking a courtroom showdown, the case could set a significant precedent for intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry. For now, all eyes are on Cannon and Zeus Network as they prepare their defense—or potentially negotiate a settlement.
