The well-known voice actor Tom Bodett recently sued the car chain brand Motel 6 and its parent company G6 Hospitality, accusing them of still using his name and voice for promotion without authorization after the contract was terminated. Bodette has been recording the classic advertising slogan “We’ll turn on the lights for you” for Motel 6 since 1986, but the partnership ended after the new owner, the Indian OYO Group, failed to pay an annual fee of 1.2 million US dollars. The lawsuit alleges that despite the contract expiring in November 2024, Motel 6 still used its voice in the national booking hotline, suspected of violating the contract and trademark laws.
Bodter said he had tried to negotiate a settlement, but Motel 6 responded only with “false statements and delays”. He demanded a claim of 1.2 million US dollars and additional compensation. The parent company of Motel 6 responded that it was surprised by the lawsuit but hoped for a friendly resolution, and emphasized that “it will continue to promote and keep the lights on.” Bodett said by email, “The content of the lawsuit says it all.”
Motel 6 currently has over 1,450 stores in the United States and Canada and was acquired by the OYO Group for $525 million in December 2023. This case has been referred to the Federal Court of New York for trial, with the case number 25-04854. Motel 6 is widely known for its participation in Ken Burns’ documentaries and public radio programs, and its advertising slogan is regarded as one of the core identifiers of the Motel 6 brand.
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