MARKETING

L.A. Gear Files Suit Against Michael Jackson: L.A. Gear Inc. said it filed a $46-million lawsuit against the entertainer in Los Angeles, seeking to rescind the endorsement contract Jackson signed with the athletic shoe distributor in 1989. L.A. Gear wants back the $5 million it says it paid Jackson for the endorsement of the “Signature” line of shoes and accessories. It also contends that it is entitled to the $23 million Jackson reportedly received from Sony for his new recording contract and $18 million to settle two shareholder suits. The claims arose in connection with contracts between L.A. Gear and the entertainer, who granted the firm the exclusive right to use Jackson’s name and likeness in connection with the advertisement, promotion and sale of L.A. Gear shoes and apparel. “Jackson refused to, and did not, wear L.A. Gear shoes” in his L.A. Gear commercial, the complaint says.