Disney Unable To Use Star+ Brand in Brazil Following Ruling

Deadline has reported that The Walt Disney Company will not be able to use the Star+ brand in Brazil, after a ruling states that it can be easily confused with Starz.

What’s Happening:

  • Disney’s plan to launch Star+ in Brazil has hit a roadblock according to Deadline, as it has been ruled that the service’s name is too close to Starz, which would confuse consumers.
  • The complaint was originally brought up by Lionsgate who owns Starz, with the court has granted them a temporary restraining order saying Disney is not allowed to use the Star name.
  • Star+ was planned to roll out in Brazil starting in August. Following the ruling, Disney has reportedly filed its own appeal.
  • Lionsgate has not filed suites in Europe due to Star+ being bundled in Disney+, causing less confusion. In Latin America, the Star+ service will be standalone, starting the filing of suits by Lionsgate which also includes Mexico and Argentina.
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