Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi has taken to social media to update his fans on his legal battle with The Lion King producer, Lebo M.
The case was brought forth when Jonasi, whose real name is Learnmore Mwanyenyeka, went on Akbar Gbajabiamila’s and comedian Godfrey’s One54 Africa Podcast and translated the opening lines of the song The Circle of Life, which Lebo M wrote and produced. The translation displeased Lebo M, who felt that it was a damaging misrepresentation.
This prompted Jonasi to set up a GoFundMe, which is currently just shy of the $30,000 (R486 945) target, at just over $28,000 (R454 482).
Jonasi let his fans know how the case is progressing in a rather interesting way: A slideshow of the comedian posing on the toilet with update captions for each picture.
The Update
“Public Update: To everyone who has been following the Lion King lawsuit. My attorney has informed me that Lebo M has files an amended complaint. He has dropped all the original state law claims, including defamation, trade libel, and intentional interference with economic advantage,” he begins.
“The case is now focused solely on federal trademark claims.”
“It’s interesting to see how the case has evolved. Since the original claims were dropped, the apparent focus is now on whether Lebo M has any trademark rights to “It’s a Lion” that can be protected under trademark law and whether those rights are superior to my First Amendment rights,” Jonasi continues.
“While I’m surprised this is the current direction of the case, I will let the courts decide.”
“From the beginning, my content has been comedy and satire. Those who understand my work know the context and the humour behind it. My legal team believes these remaining claims have no merit, and will filing a motion to dismiss.”
“We are confident that the full context of my work and the protection for comedy and free expression under the First Amendment will speak for themselves.”
“I think I will be fine,” he concludes.