Copyrights and trademarks-Honeymooners

[powbangzooom]

I was trying to find out who owns the rights to The Honeymooners. Is it VIP Corp or CBS? Does anyone know where to start if I wanted to inquire about getting a license to use images or phrases for merchandise? There appears to be products out there that are not licensed, but I would like to do it legally. Are the words “The Honeymooners” a trademark that can’t be used? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks for your help.
Brother Norton

[T-Greg]

I think it depends on which shows you are talking about. The Lost episodes are licensed to MPI (video rights) and I believe are owned by Gleason Enterprises. Some of the shows (American Scene Magazine and the Color Honeymooners) were/are licensed to Paul Brownstein Productions for distribution only. He is/was responsible for finding an outlet for broadcasting. The deal with the Hallmark Channel fell through a few years ago, but they later aired on Goodlife. Those shows are also owned By Gleason, as far as I know. I don't think CBS retained rights for any of the shows. As far as merchandising, I would guess that Gleason owns those too.

Paul Brownstein Productions:

http://www.tvclassics.com/

MPI:

http://www.mpihomevideo.com/

[powbangzooom]

Thanks for the info. I guess VIP corp must have inquired a license for merchandise. But I thought they made some contract with Jackie in the 80's, but I'm not sure. I will check out the links you sent me.
Thanks Pal O' Mine.

[Bill S.]

There appears to be products out there that are not licensed, but I would like to do it legally.
What are you trying to do exactly?

[powbangzooom]

Well I was thinking of producing some merchandise like clothing, furniture, glassware, & other unique items (still brain storming). Possibly open a little shop on ebay or the flea market. I wanted to first determine if this could be done before coming up with designs. I would like to use the name “The Honeymooners” for the shop or business.