Disney is currently facing a legal issue over their usage of Peter Cushing's likeness in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
Using advanced visual effects technology, the late actor's likeness was "resurrected" to bring back his iconic character of Grand Moff Tarkin to the screen and have a prominent role in the film.
While the impressive CGI work was praised by fans at that time, it also posed a question regarding the ethics of "resurrecting" a dead actor to the screen, especially as it has become a common practice today.
Peter Cushing's Friend Sues Disney for Using Late Actor's Image in Rogue One
It was reported that Disney was sued by Cushing's friend Kevin Francis over the usage of his likeness in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
Francis claimed that Cushing agreed not to grant permission for anyone to reproduce his appearance through special effects without his authorization.
He explained that the late actor signed the agreement not to allow his image to be used without Francis' permission in 1993. He passed away the following year.
He also brought the claims against Lunak Heavy Industries, the UK producer of Rogue One, the executors of Cushing’s estate, and Associated International Management, the agency that represented the late actor.
Disney tried to have Francis' claim for “unjust enrichment” to be dismissed at the High Court in London but it was denied. It will now head to trial.
They also argued that the permission was not required because of the terms of his contract in the original film and the nature of the special effects.
After they were contacted by Cushing's agent about their intention to use his likeness, Disney agreed to pay his estate of about £28,000.
So far, Disney has not released an official statement regarding their comment on the lawsuit.
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