The Writer magazine forum is FREE to browse. LOGIN | REGISTER with The Writer magazine Web site.
Welcome to The Writer   Faq | Login | Register  

Ethics and writing

Started by Nanlisa at 05-10-2007 12:14 AM. Topic has 3 replies.
Print Search
Sort Posts:    
   05-10-2007, 12:14 AM
Nanlisa

Joined on 05-10-2007
Posts 7
USING FAMOUS PEOPLE IN FICTION
My short stories have been about Hollywood, popular culture, celebrities, music, television, and the 1960's, and yes; I have used famous people in them, but I don't intend to defame them. Just to be on the safe side, I made some changes in a few of them. When in doubt, fictionalize.
   Report Abuse 
   05-10-2007, 12:22 AM
Nanlisa

Joined on 05-10-2007
Posts 7
Re: USING FAMOUS PEOPLE IN FICTION

TV shows have used famous people and other TV shows for years in their episodes.  For example:

1. On "227", Marla Gibbs are her friends go to Hollywood to appear on "Wheel of Fortune". Pat Sajak and Vanna White played themselves.

2. On "The Odd Couple", Oscar and Felix go on "Password." Allen Ludden and Betty White played themselves.

3. Vanna White played herself and the high school test administrator on "Full House".

4. On "Good Times", there were plenty of references to politicians; movie, TV, and recording stars; and civil rights leaders.

5. In "American Graffiti", there were references to President Kennedy, Sandra Dee, and Connie Stevens.

6. In Grease, there was a song entitled "Look at Me: I'm Sandra Dee", with references to Doris Day, Troy Donahue, and Elvis.

There's nothing wrong with using famous people in fiction, as long as you don't defame their reputations. I was going to write a short story using Dr. Phil as one of the characters, but then I changed my mind and didn't do it; for fear that Dr. Phil might sue me. But like I said before: when in doubt; fictionalize.

   Report Abuse 
   10-07-2008, 4:23 PM
Edgeledge

Joined on 10-01-2008
Posts 5
Re: USING FAMOUS PEOPLE IN FICTION

If possible I would contact the casting agent (if they are alive) or the estate executors if they have passed. Giving the a brief extract of the part the character is involved in and ask for permission. Too late if it gets published and they see it and take action.

 I haven't heard of any knockbacks on this one. If it's a novel you can also say thanks in the intro.

   Report Abuse 
   03-16-2009, 11:36 AM
Farson

Joined on 03-16-2009
Posts 5
Re: USING FAMOUS PEOPLE IN FICTION
I don't see any problem with using famous people in fiction, as long as you don't go out of your way to slander them. I don't believe I've every used any famous people in my own fiction, unless of course you count historical figures who've been dead for centuries, so I've never had any personal experience with the issue.
   Report Abuse 
The Writer » FREE forums: General (open to all; must register to post) » Ethics and writing Forum Jump:

Powered by Community Server, by Telligent Systems