O.C. Couple’s Suit Says Muppet Firm Stole Their Ideas
An Orange County couple has sued the Jim Henson Co. for $250 million, accusing the Muppet makers of stealing their ideas and using them in a number of best-selling children’s books.
The copyright and trademark infringement lawsuit, filed Wednesday in federal court, alleges Henson stole the idea for a character called “Nicky Moonbeam” who would comfort children afraid of the dark. Also stolen were designs for a playful moon and stars and the concept of children’s books containing a night-light, attorney Martinas Silas said Friday.
A call seeking comment from the Henson Co. was not immediately returned.
According to the suit, Wanda Cavalier, a former teacher from Orange County, came up with the “Nicky Moonbeam” character in 1992 and developed a marketing plan with her husband, Christopher, that would include merchandise and books.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
