Woody Allen Claims American Apparel Violated Privacy, Publicity Rights With 'Annie Hall' Ad

Posted by Eriq Gardner

Did American Apparel really believe that it could get away with using a still from the film "Annie Hall" for an advertisement without permission? The company allegedly featured a bearded Woody Allen from the film with Hebrew text. Now the actor/writer/director is suing for at least $10 million, claiming in Manhattan federal court that the company used Allen's "image and identity in total disregard of his rights to privacy and publicity, his exclusive property rights and his personal rights.”

The ad's Hebrew text translates to something like "the holy rabbi." (How this sells bland clothing is anybody's guess.) Last year, when the ad went up next to a Burrito King in Los Angeles, American Apparel spokeswoman Alexandra Spunt stated “Woody Allen is our spiritual leader and that’s the only statement the company will make on that issue.” Guess again.