Comedian Chris Farley’s family suing bike-maker Trek

By: Associated Press//June 5, 2018//

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The family of deceased comedian Chris Farley has filed a federal lawsuit against Trek Bicycle for naming its fat-tired bikes Farley. The lawsuit alleges that the Wisconsin-based bike company misappropriated Farley’s name and traded on his “fat guy” brand of comedy in 2013 when it gave the Farley name to its new fat-tired bikes. (AP File Photo/Richard Drew)

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The family of the late comedian and film star Chris Farley has filed a federal lawsuit against Trek Bicycle for naming its fat-tired bikes Farley.

The lawsuit alleges that the Wisconsin-based bike company misappropriated Farley’s name and traded on his “fat guy” brand of comedy in 2013 when it gave the Farley name to its new fat-tired bikes.

Chris Farley was born and raised in Madison, only about 30 miles from Waterloo, where Trek has its headquarters.

The Wisconsin State Journal reports Tuesday that the lawsuit originated in California but a judge on Friday ordered that it be heard instead in federal court in Madison because that court is closer to where the parties are.

A company founded and run by Farley’s family to protect his publicity and property rights says the damages could exceed $10 million.

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