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Tom Bodett, longtime Motel 6 spokesman, sues the chain for using his name and voice

Introduction

Tom Bodett, famed for his memorable advertising campaign for Motel 6, has filed a lawsuit against the motel chain, claiming unauthorized use of his name and voice after a long-standing partnership ended.

Context

In his complaint submitted to Manhattan federal court, Bodett revealed that he severed ties with Motel 6 following the failure of its new owner, India-based OYO, to make a crucial $1.2 million annual payment, which was due on January 7. This payment was part of a contract that was set to expire in November.

Developments

Bodett asserts that despite their contractual agreement being terminated, Motel 6 continued to use his name and voice on their national reservation phone line, thereby violating both the contract and federal trademark laws.

The 70-year-old author and voice actor, recognized for his smooth baritone and contributions to National Public Radio and various Ken Burns documentaries, sought to negotiate a confidential settlement. He aimed to ensure that his contributions to the Motel 6 brand were acknowledged without harming the motel’s reputation or its franchisees. Unfortunately, Bodett claims that the company only engaged in "misrepresentations, obfuscations, and delay tactics."

The lawsuit demands $1.2 million, alongside additional unspecified damages and a share of the profits.

Motel 6 had not provided any immediate comment regarding the lawsuit as of Tuesday. Bodett had been the chain’s lead spokesman since 1986 and famously ad-libbed the line "we'll leave the light on for you."

Motel 6 operates more than 1,450 locations across the United States and Canada. OYO, a global travel technology company, acquired Motel 6 from Blackstone Real Estate for $525 million in December.

The case is officially titled Bodett et al v G6 Hospitality LLC et al, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 25-04854.

Conclusion

The outcome of Bodett's lawsuit against Motel 6 could have significant implications for his legacy and the motel chain's future marketing strategies. As the legal proceedings unfold, both parties will seek to protect their interests in this high-profile dispute.