[author: Rashanda Bruce]
In a growing world of technology, companies are employing social media platforms to attract new customers and grow their online presence. #Hashtags and @Handles – made popular by Twitter – have proven to be effective sources for growing business. Hashtags label words, making it easier for customers to find themed information or specific content. Handles create unique identifiers, making it easier for companies to create and market their brand.
Celebrities also rely on hashtags and handles to market their brands. With followers ranging in the thousands to the millions, celebrities use these social media tools to maintain and boost engagement with fans. Additionally, celebrities rely on social media when they enter into partnerships with companies. The partnerships typically require celebrities to reference companies on social media platforms. These references increase a company’s awareness and provide brand validation for celebrity followers. Recognizing this trend, some companies have started to reference celebrities via hashtags and handles – even where the celebrity and company do not have a partnership. Although a profitable marketing strategy, companies should understand how this strategy could lead to a celebrity claiming a right of publicity violation.
The right of publicity prevents the unauthorized commercial use of an individual’s name, likeness, or other recognizable aspects of one’s persona. Although not governed by a federal statute, the right of publicity is actionable and protected by state common or statutory law. The right of publicity is a property right, thereby prohibiting others from using an individual’s identity for a commercial gain. Companies who use social media for marketing purposes should take precautionary steps to avoid possible violations.
For example, companies desiring to use a celebrity’s name for marketing purposes should consult with the celebrity. Best practice is to obtain consent from the celebrity in writing with clearly defined language and detailed rights regarding name use on social media platforms. Where a celebrity is unavailable or unresponsive, companies should think about whether it is better to simply refrain from using the celebrity’s name. Companies should also develop policies for employees who use social media on behalf of the company. Establishing protocol will help alleviate concerns and risk.
Social media marketing using celebrity names can be profitable for companies when appropriately used. However, this same marketing tool can also prove to be burdensome and costly if celebrities feel their publicity rights have been violated. In a growing world of technology, companies need to exercise caution and good judgment when making these marketing decisions.
Rashanda Bruce is a summer associate, based in the firm’s Minneapolis office.
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