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Comment on Ask HN: Got a site that could be massively viral then fade -- how do I cash in?parent

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You're acting as if Conan is in explicit control of his lawyers. He's a major celebrity worth millions of dollars. If the lawyer didn't try to shut down sites with his name in them (that are about him), he/she isn't a very good lawyer.

Besides, the grandfather post said they asked for the domain - not the site (?). That could be very relevant.

>If the lawyer didn't try to shut down sites with his name in them (that are about him), he/she isn't a very good lawyer.

People don't generally own the rights to exclusive use of their name and news reporting clauses in copyright usually make such requests contrary to law IMO.

However, in the USA at least I expect it's the old "I've got money and lawyers and so you have to do what I say".

The lawyer contacted me and asked if they could have the domain (and hinted that they would be willing to pay or trade tickets/merchandise). I just gave it to him. There was never any inkling of strong arming or a forceful shut down on their end.

Conan sent us a signed thank you later about a week after the domain transfer went through.

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