A+E Networks Settles ‘Live PD’ Legal Dispute With Reelz & Big Fish

On By Littum

The long-running dispute between A+E Networks, cable network Reelz and Amazon-owned Big Fish Entertainment is over Live PD is settled.

The three companies have “reached a settlement” in the case, which was related to the Reelz launch On Patrol: Live after cancellation of Live PD at A&E.

In addition, A+E Networks has entered into a non-exclusive licensing agreement with Big Fish owner Amazon.

It comes more than two years after A+E Networks sued Reelz and Big Fish.

“The legal dispute between A+E and Big Fish Entertainment and Reelz regarding Live PD has been resolved, an A+E Networks spokesman said Friday.

The case started in August 2022; Deadline broke the news in June 2020 that Live PD had been canceled amid ongoing protests against police brutality following the killing of George Floyd. In June 2022, Reelz ordered On Patrol: Live from Live PD producer Big Fish Entertainment, but then in August the company sued Reelz and Big Fish.

In December 2022, Big Fish hit back at the lawsuit filed by the cable network group in August, calling it “meritless” and laying out its reasons in a motion to dismiss the suit in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York.

The crux of the question was whether On Patrol: Livewhich became a ratings success for Reelz, was a “clone” of Live PD. In its August filing, the Hearst- and Disney-backed company used phrases like “brazen theft” and “blatant infringement.”

In June 2023, the two companies appeared to be headed to court after a judge denied a motion.

This morning, A&E lawyers told the court they had resolved the situation.

Separately, in connection with the settlement, Amazon and A&E Television have entered into a multi-year, non-exclusive license agreement. The deal will see A&E shows available on Amazon Prime Video as well as subscription packages and the launch of FAST channels.

“A+E Networks and Amazon have agreed to significantly expand their commercial relationship in a multi-year agreement that will amplify the reach of A+E Networks’ brands and content on Amazon’s Prime Video service,” the spokesperson added.