Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
The Firm
201-896-4100 info@sh-law.comFirm Insights
Court Dismisses Privacy Lawsuit Against Joan Rivers
Author: Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
Date: January 25, 2013
Key Contacts
Back
Privacy Lawsuit Dismissed
Joan Rivers is not always known for her tactful language and political correctness, but a recent appeals court sided with the comedian in a recent privacy lawsuit brought on by fan who attended a show that appeared in Rivers’ 2010 documentary.
The plaintiff, Ann Bogie, was filmed having a discussion with Joan Rivers during the autograph session of the show backstage, and ultimately filed suit after the 16-second clip appeared in the “Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work” documentary, arguing that she had a reasonable expectation of privacy. The documentary features a show in Wisconsin, during which the 76-year-old made a Helen Keller joke that offended an audience member, who interrupted the show to remark that his son was deaf and he found the quip offensive.
“Oh please, you are so stupid,” Rivers said. “Comedy is to make everybody laugh at everything and deal with things. You idiot.”
Backstage following the encounter, Bogie told Rivers she “had never laughed so hard in her life,” and called the heckler in the audience a “rotten guy.” When the clip appeared in the documentary, Bogie sued Rivers and said the surprise appearance in the film misappropriated her image and violated her privacy. The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court decision that dismissed Bogie’s privacy claims and asserted that no person could have a reasonable expectation of privacy in a backstage area.
“Assuming that Bogie was invited backstage, that would not advance her claim of a reasonable expectation of privacy,” Judge David Hamilton wrote for the panel. “The film shows that any such invitation was to obtain a backstage autograph from a celebrity in the presence of several security personnel and a film crew. No reasonable person would expect privacy in that situation.”
This is not the first time audience members that have appeared in documentaries have brought privacy suits against celebrities. Several people who appeared in a number of Sacha Baron Cohen films, including Borat, sued the actor and argued that he violated several provisions of entertainment law. However, nearly all of these plaintiffs lost their lawsuits.
- Industries: Entertainment & Media
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Related Posts
See all
Buying Commercial Property in New Jersey: Legal Guide for Small Businesses
Small businesses considering buying commercial property in New Jersey must evaluate a range of legal, financial, and operational factors. While ownership can offer long-term value and control, it also introduces significant risks if not properly structured. This guide outlines key considerations to help New Jersey business owners make informed decisions, minimize legal exposure, and successfully […]
Author: Robert L. Baker, Jr.
The SEC’s Latest Guidance on Applying Federal Securities Laws to Tokenized Securities
On January 28, 2026, staff of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Divisions of Corporation Finance, Investment Management, and Trading and Markets issued a joint statement clarifying how existing federal securities laws apply to tokenized securities. The SEC’s “Statement on Tokenized Securities” does not establish new law, but it does provide greater clarity on the […]
Author: Dan Brecher
Common Legal Mistakes NYC and New Jersey Business Owners Make
Operating a business in the New Jersey and New York City metropolitan region offers incredible opportunities, but it also requires navigating a dense and highly regulated legal environment. From entity formation to regulatory compliance, seemingly minor legal oversights can expose business owners to significant risk. In our work with businesses throughout the region, our attorneys […]
Author: Dan Brecher
What Founders Can Learn From Start-up Suits
High-profile founder litigation is more than just a media spectacle. For startup founders, these cases underscore the legal and structural risks that can arise when rapid growth outpaces formal oversight. While launching a new company can be both an exciting and deeply rewarding endeavor, founders must be mindful that it also comes with significant risks. […]
Author: Dan Brecher
Corporate Governance Reviews: A Practical Guide for New Jersey Companies
Every New Jersey company should periodically evaluate its governance framework. Strong corporate governance protects directors and officers, builds investor confidence, reduces litigation exposure, and positions a company for sustainable growth. The first quarter of the year is a great time to evaluate your corporate governance practices and perform any routine maintenance needed to keep that […]
Author: Ken Hollenbeck
What to Do After Being Served with a Lawsuit: Steps to Protect Your Legal Rights
Being served with a lawsuit is one of the most stressful legal events a business or individual can face. Whether the claim involves a contract dispute, an employment matter, an intellectual property issue, or another legal challenge, the actions you take in the first few days can significantly shape the outcome of your case. Acting […]
Author: Robert E. Levy
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.