Does a couch violate Humphrey Bogart's rights?

By Eriq Gardner

Take a close look at this piece of furniture. Does the retro style remind you of a certain actor from the 1930s and 1940s?

Here's a hint: It's called the "Bogart Single Reclin' Love w/ Half Wedge."

The company that now owns the name, image and likeness of Humphrey Bogart isn't a big fan of the sofa, which it says violates the publicity rights and trademark of the iconic actor. In a lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Georgia against Ashley Furniture Industries, Bogart, LLC says that selling furniture with the "Bogart" mark is likely to confuse, mislead or deceive the consuming public by giving the false impression that it is somehow endorsed or affiliated with Humphrey Bogart. 

The plaintiff says it has been paid millions of dollars in licensing fees for the use of the "Bogart" name in connection with the Thomasville "Bogart" furniture line. Having another "Bogart" on the market is threatening. The plaintiff wants an injunction and $1 million in damages for the alleged, um, bogarting of the actor's name and likeness.

Previously: How much is John Wayne worth these days?