Michael Jackson’s estate has sued a charity foundation for allegedly using his name and likeness without permission. Heal the World Foundation is being accused of unfair competition, trademark infringement and other violations.
According to the King of Pop’s estate special administrators John Branca and John McClain, the organization – which describes itself as a “universal charity organization designed to improve the condition of all mankind” – used websites and trademarks that suggest Jackson endorsed donations to the organization.
The singer’s own Heal the World foundation, which he formed in 1992, is no longer active.
Lawyers for his estate also alleges that the new foundation and a related entity, United Fleet, registered numerous Jackson-related trademarks, applied for another 41, and sold merchandise through them, BBC reports.
They are seeking to block the use of words and phrases associated with the “Thriller” hitmaker.
