Ex-Rutgers QB Suing Video-Game Maker
Ryan Hart claims Electronic Arts used his likeness without his permission
By KAREN ARAIZA
Updated 9:11 AM EDT, Tue, Jun 30, 2009
Former Rutgers quarterback Ryan Hart is suing the world's top interactive entertainment software company, Electronic Arts. Hart claims the company used his name and likeness without his permission in its NCAA Football game, according to MyCentralJersey.com.
Hart quarterbacked the Scarlet Knights from 2002 to 2005. Troy Taylor, who played for the University of California before a short stint as QB for the New York Jets, joined Hart in the lawsuit.
The suit says Hart and Taylor never authorized the use of their names, images, or likenesses for the game. The suit claims that EA invaded their privacy for commercial purposes and "unjust enrichment." Hart and Taylor are asking for a jury trial and unspecified damages, according to the report.
"EA (Electronic Arts), the NCAA and CLC (Collegiate Licensing Company) have reviewed the complaint, and do not believe that the claims have merit," said Rob Semsey, senior public relations manager for EA Sports. "EA, the NCAA and CLC regularly conduct reviews of EA's NCAA-branded games, and we do not believe that any violations of student-athlete rights or NCAA bylaws have occurred."
In May, Sam Keller, another college football player, filed suit against Electronic Arts and the NCAA, making the same claims.
Copyright Associated Press / NBC Miami
First Published: Jun 30, 2009 7:33 AM EDT on NBC Philadelphia
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