· · 2 sources

Appeals court allows Crichton widow to pursue lawsuit over The Pitt and ER similarities

A US appeals court ruled on Wednesday that Michael Crichton's widow can proceed with her lawsuit against Warner Bros Television regarding the similarities between The Pitt and ER.

‘The Pitt’ and ‘ER’ Are Similar Enough to Allow Crichton Suit, Appeals Court Rules
File photo ‘The Pitt’ and ‘ER’ Are Similar Enough to Allow Crichton Suit, Appeals Court Rules Photo: Variety

Court denies studio appeal

A three-judge panel issued a unanimous opinion denying an appeal from Warner Bros Television. The studio had argued for two years that the two shows are unrelated. The court found clear similarities in the emergency room setting and medical jargon.

Defendants lack intent to violate

The judges dismissed claims against key creators Noah Wyle and John Wells. There was no evidence these individuals knew they were violating Crichton's contractual rights. The suit will now move toward a jury trial in Los Angeles.

All 2 outlets report consistently

No differences in figures, names or dates across these reports.

  • Variety
  • The Guardian

Reported by

2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.