A recent court ruling has dismissed claims of copyright infringement in the lawsuit between celebrity trainer Tracy Anderson and her former employee-turned-rival, Megan Roup. Roup, who left Anderson to create the popular Sculpt Society, won this particular round in the legal battle. However, there is still a remaining claim of breach of contract that will likely go to trial unless a settlement is reached. Roup’s lawyer views this latest decision as a positive outcome for the fitness industry as a whole. On the other hand, Anderson’s side believes that the court did not fully analyze specific choreographic works that are protected by copyright.
Roup previously worked for Tracy Anderson, who is known for training celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Hudson, and Jessica Simpson, from 2011 until 2017. After leaving Anderson’s employment, Roup launched her own online workout program called Sculpt Society. Anderson responded by filing a lawsuit against Roup in July 2022, alleging copyright infringement, breach of contract, false advertising, and other claims. Last year, Roup won a legal victory when a California judge granted her motion to dismiss the false advertising claim and ordered Anderson to pay Roup’s legal fees.
Roup’s lawyer, Nathaniel Birch, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision to reject Tracy Anderson’s copyright claim. He emphasized that the ruling is not just a win for Roup but also a positive development for the entire fitness industry, clarifying that no one owns physical exercise or dance cardio. Birch stated that they look forward to prevailing on the remaining aspects of the case at trial. On the other hand, Anderson’s attorney, Gina Durham, defended her client’s decision to initiate the lawsuit, citing years of research, development, and investment in Anderson’s art form. Durham argued that Roup and the Sculpt Society had capitalized on Anderson’s hard work and sought to vindicate her rights through legal action.
Despite the court’s decision on copyright infringement, Tracy Anderson remains committed to pursuing protection for the specific choreographic works she has registered with the Copyright Office. Her legal team intends to address any unauthorized uses of these works under the law. Anderson looks ahead to the upcoming trial against Megan Roup and the Sculpt Society, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding her intellectual property and defending her legacy in the fitness industry.
Through the twists and turns of this legal battle, the dispute between Tracy Anderson and Megan Roup underscores the challenges faced by individuals in the competitive world of fitness training. As the case moves forward, the outcome will not only impact the two parties involved but also set a precedent for copyright protection and ownership within the fitness industry as a whole.
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