Viacom Files Copyright Lawsuit Against Nick Cannon, Zeus Network
Viacom International Inc. went after Zeus Network and Nick Cannon on February 4, 2025. The media company says their new show “Bad vs. Wild” copies MTV’s popular series, also featuring Nick Cannon, “Wild ‘N Out.“
“Zeus intentionally copied elements of Wild’ N Out in developing Bad vs. Wild, knowing that those acts constituted infringements of Viacom’s copyrights,” attorney George W. Kroup said according to AllHipHop. “Zeus’s collaboration with Mr. Cannon, the longtime host and face of “Wild ‘N Out, in developing Bad vs. Wild further cements the conclusion that Bad vs. Wild intentionally ripped off Wild ‘N Out to profit off its creative elements, without having to do the work of creating original content itself. “
The lawsuit seeks to stop the series and get money damages. Viacom wants three times the compensation, pointing to Zeus’s obvious attempt to copy their show.
Zeus made no effort to hide the connection. They promoted the show as “Wild ‘N Out on steroids” and pulled talent right from MTV’s roster. The streaming service launched “Bad vs. Wild” on March 3, 2024.
Legal documents detail many examples of copying. Zeus Network hired former MTV employees and performers. The lawsuit also claims the new show hurts the original’s image with inappropriate content and racial stereotyping.
By hosting “Bad vs. Wild,” Cannon broke his agreement with Viacom, the legal papers say. He’s been running “Wild ‘N Out” since it first started on MTV.
The new show puts celebrities from “Baddies” against MTV veterans, featuring stars Joseline Hernandez and Natalie Nunn going head-to-head in intense competitions.
Both Zeus Network and Cannon haven’t said anything about the accusations as the case moves forward in court.
