A California judge has issued a temporary restraining order in the dispute between Sony and CBS over game shows Jeopardy! and Wheel Of Fortune. The move blocks Sony’s efforts to take control of the distribution for both shows, which have been distributed by CBS for 40 years.
Sony had announced plans to terminate its distribution agreement with CBS and assume global distribution functions. However, Judge Kevin C. Brazile has instructed Sony’s entertainment arm, SPT, to temporarily cease taking on the distribution duties until further court action is heard.
The dispute revolves around Sony’s claims that CBS has not been handling its split of the duties fairly, including advertising and foreign territories. Both studios have issued statements, with CBS claiming vindication and Sony stating it believes its actions were lawful.
Both shows are highly successful, with Jeopardy! and Wheel Of Fortune each drawing over 7 million viewers on average. The outcome of the dispute is yet to be determined.
Source: https://www.avclub.com/judge-blocks-jeopardy-wheel-of-fortune-sony-takeover