Why Is Jerry Seinfeld Getting Sued?

Legendary comedian Jerry Seinfeld, best known for the sitcom bearing his last name, a smash hit “show-about-nothing” that skyrocketed the comedian to superstar status in the 90’s, is now being sued over his lates project, Comedians in Cars getting Coffee.

Jerry’s new project ties in his love of cars and his connection to the world of comedy to bring viewers a look at what funny people talk about when they’re hanging out together. It seems unlikely that it’s pure coincidence Seinfeld has another show with no real extended plot that’s becoming a smash hit, but according to the lawsuit that’s been filed, the idea wasn’t Jerry’s, and the alleged owner wants his credit and his cut.

According to TMZ, “Christian Charles says he pitched a show idea to Jerry in 2002, and claims it’s the basis for “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.” In his lawsuit, Charles says Jerry turned him down, initially, saying he wasn’t interested in doing the show.” Seinfeld apparently revisited the idea with Charles in 2011 and the pair even shot a pilot together. Jerry and his team seemed to be on board, with production budgets and marketing ideas being discussed.

The issue devolved to a bitter feud when Seinfeld and Charles disagreed over Charles claiming ownership interest in the idea, prompting Seinfeld to ditch him and produce the show himself without cutting Charles in on the money or credit for the concept. Now, some seven years later, the show has become a success, with Jerry pocketing $750,000 an episode, and Charles wants what he feels he is entitled to.

Seinfeld’s attorney, Orin Snyder, has responded to the allegations, saying “This lawsuit is delusional. Jerry independently created ‘Comedians in Cars’ and Mr. Charles only concocted this claim after the show became a commercial success.” He called the lawsuit a “shakedown” and said he and Seinfeld are confident it will go nowhere. Stay tuned for more as this story continues to play out.