A question about using names

Pieon · Post by **Pieon** » 25 May 2011, 03:34

I'm starting to write a novel and I have this great idea for it. i wanna use real actors names in the book, with the main characters interacting with the real actor. like for example a scene in the book where the character talks to Hugh Jackman or Lady Gaga. could i do that? or will i get my ass sued?

Maud Fitch · Post by **Maud Fitch** » 25 May 2011, 07:31

Sounds cute, love Hugh Jackman! It may be unwise to use a person's real name without respecting their wishes. Although it may be possible to make up a name like Hew Jackmen, Huge Jackmon or something similar without incurring the wrath of the gods.

Personally I wouldn't go there unless I received legal advice and had written permission from the person involved because authors can get into trouble just mentioning a brand name without seeking permission through the proper channels. I do not know the legal ramifications other than “Libel can occur when a person or entity communicates false information that damages the reputation of another person or entity. Libel is defined as defamation by written or printed words, etc.”

Even if you write nice stuff, I bet a living actor would not be impressed if you made money off their name. (A deceased actor’s name can be used, much the same as classics are free on the internet because their copyright has expired). An actor "owns" their name, it's like their "trademark". Perhaps you remember when Disney used Robin Williams' Genie voice from Aladdin without his consent - chaos and lots of money later.....

Fran · Post by **Fran** » 25 May 2011, 09:06

@ Pieon

I imagine you would also have major problems getting a publisher to take the risk of being sued ... people generally go after the publisher with resources rather than the author 'starving in a garret'.

Moore · Post by **Moore** » 25 May 2011, 13:56

It can be unusual to give such names, but what for? Sometime we are tired of these names and we want to hear some new names.

andr70 · Post by **andr70** » 30 May 2011, 08:11

I think that your wish to use real names in your book is real in any country except from the US and Europe. You can print such book in Russia or India, so in any country where the name of Hugh Jackman is a common name in comics.

Aileenhu · Post by **Aileenhu** » 31 May 2011, 05:22

I think you'll really have to consult the people whose names you plan to choose. Why don't you choose a normal name? (perhaps pay attention to the name's meanings and orgins)

Eric Tolevsky · Post by **Eric Tolevsky** » 15 Jun 2011, 14:15

I think that using real names could be a good idea. It may be hard to get published as others have said or it may be what sets you apart. A really good lawsuit may only help your cause!