Bergsman*
Masiello
Pologeorgis
THIS OPINION IS NOT A
PRECEDENT OF THE TTAB
Mailed: August 17, 2017
UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
_____
Trademark Trial and Appeal Board
_____
DC Comics
v.
Deanna Rivetti
_____
Opposition No. 91219851
_____
James D. Weinberger of Fross Zelnick Lehrman & Zissu PC,
for DC Comics.
David Barlavi of the Law Office of David Barlavi,
for Deanna Rivetti.
_____
Before Bergsman, Masiello and Pologeorgis,
Administrative Trademark Judges.
Opinion by Bergsman, Administrative Trademark Judge:
Deanna Rivetti (Applicant) seeks registration on the Principal Register of the
mark SUPER WOMAN OF REAL ESTATE (in standard characters) for real estate
procurement for others, in Class 36.1 Applicant disclaimed the exclusive right to use
the term Real Estate.
1 Application Serial No. 86240703 was filed on April 2, 2014, under Section 1(a) of the
Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1052(a), based upon Applicants claim of first use anywhere and
use in commerce since at least as early as August 2, 2011.
Opposition No. 91219851
DC Comics (Opposer) filed a Notice of Opposition against the registration of
Applicants mark on the ground of likelihood of confusion and dilution by blurring
pursuant to Sections 2(d) and 43(c) of the Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. §§ 1052(d) and
1125(c). Opposer pleaded ownership of, inter alia, the registered trademarks listed
below:
Registration No. 1181536 for the mark SUPERMAN (typed drawing form) for
entertainment services namely, series of motion pictures, television programs,
animated cartoon films, in Class 41;2
Registration No. 1216976 for the mark SUPERMAN (typed drawing form) for
advertising and promotional services namely, creating advertising for others
incorporating comic strip materials, in Class 35;3
Registration No. 1218552 for the mark SUPERMAN (stylized), shown below, for
advertising and promotional services namely, creative advertising for others
incorporating comic strip materials, licensing use of comic strip characters for
promotional purposes, and providing promotional services in connection with these
licenses, in Class 35;4 and
2 Registered December 8, 1991; second renewal.
3 Registered November 16, 1982; second renewal.
4 Registered November 30, 1982; second renewal.
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Opposition No. 91219851
Registration No. 3784483 for the mark SUPERWOMAN (standard characters)
for action figures and accessories therefor, in Class 28.5
In addition, Opposer alleged common law use of the SUPERMAN, SUPERGIRL,
and SUPERWOMAN trademarks, and the appearance of Superman in his blue
bodysuit (and the appearance of SUPERGIRL in her blue top) with the letter S inside
a five-sided shield on the chest and red cape in connection with literary and
entertainment works and various goods and services.6
Applicant, in her Answer, made the following admissions:
Opposer has created and published highly successful and well-known
characters, including Superman, Superwoman;7
Due to Opposers extraordinary nurturing of the Superman mythos, the
character and his universe have captured popular imagination, and it is beyond
dispute that today the Superman lore is one of a rarefied group of legends known and
loved throughout the world.;8
Superman has become associated with certain symbols and indicia which, in
the public mind, are inextricably linked with the Superman character and which
function as trademarks, both for literary and entertainment works featuring
Superman and related characters and for various goods and services for which
5 Registered May 4, 2010; Sections 8 and 15 affidavits accepted and acknowledged.
6 Notice of Opposition ¶3 (1 TTABVUE 8).
7 Notice of Opposition ¶1 (1 TTABVUE 7) and Answer ¶1 (9 TTABVUE 2).
8 Notice of Opposition ¶2 (1 TTABVUE 8) and Answer ¶2 (9 TTABVUE 2).
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Opposition No. 91219851
Opposer has licensed others to use these marks, including SUPERMAN,
SUPERWOMAN, and the appearance of Superman in his blue bodysuit with the
letter S inside a five-sided shield on the chest and a red cape.;9
Opposer has use prior to any date upon which Applicant may rely in connection
with Opposers marks SUPERMAN, SUPERWOMAN, and the appearance of
Superman in his blue bodysuit with the letter S inside a five-sided shield on the
chest and a red cape;10
Opposers marks SUPERMAN, SUPERWOMAN and the appearance of
Superman in his blue bodysuit with the letter S inside a five-sided shield on the
chest and a red cape have become famous marks and became famous prior to any date
upon which Applicant may rely;11 and
Opposers ownership of and current status to its pleaded registrations.12
Applicant denied the remaining allegations in the Notice of Opposition.
I. Preliminary Issues.
A. Applicants statement of Substantive Arguments in Favor of Application,
with attached exhibits.
Applicant, in her Answer, included a statement of Substantive Arguments in
Favor of Application, with attached exhibits.13 Applicant should not, in her answer,
9 Notice of Opposition ¶3 (1 TTABVUE 8) and Answer ¶3 (9 TTABVUE 2).
10 Notice of Opposition ¶4 (1 TTABVUE 8-9) and Answer ¶4 (9 TTABVUE 2); see also Notice
of Opposition ¶¶ 11 and 12 (1 TTABVUE 12) and Answer ¶¶11 and 12 (9 TTABVUE 4).
11 Notice of Opposition ¶6 (1 TTABVUE 9) and Answer ¶6 (9 TTABVUE 3).
12 Notice of Opposition ¶7 (1 TTABVUE 9-11) and Answer ¶7 (9 TTABVUE 3).
13 Answer p. 6 (9 TTABVUE 7).
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Opposition No. 91219851
argue the merits of the allegations in the complaint but rather should state, as to
each of the allegations contained in the complaint, that the allegation is either
admitted or denied. Trademark Rule 2.106(b)(2), 37 C.F.R § 2.106(b)(2); Fed. R. Civ.
P. 8(b). However, an answer may include a short and plain statement of any defenses,
including affirmative defenses that Applicant may have to the claim or claims
asserted by Opposer.14 Also, evidentiary matters upon which Applicant intends to
rely should not be included in an answer. They are matters for proof, not for
pleading.15
Applicants statement of Substantive Arguments in Favor of Application is an
amplification of why Applicant believes that there is no likelihood of confusion. She
does not present any defenses or affirmative defenses.
The exhibits attached to Applicants Answer may not be considered. See
Trademark Rule 2.122(c), 37 C.F.R. § 2.122(c) (an exhibit attached to a pleading is
not evidence on behalf of the party to whose pleading the exhibit is attached, and
must be identified and introduced in evidence as an exhibit during the period for the
taking of testimony.).
Finally, in the Substantive Arguments in Favor of Application, Applicant
reviews her settlement discussions with Opposer to show that the parties had reached
a preliminary agreement to resolve their trademark issues. Pursuant to Fed. R. Evid.
14 Trademark Rule 2.106(b)(2); 37 C.F.R. § 2.106(b)(2); Fed. R. Civ. P. 8(b).
15See McCormick & Co. v. Hygrade Food Prods. Corp., 124 USPQ 16, 17 (TTAB 1959) (while
applicant may in due course introduce any evidence which it considers to be relevant to its
case, statements as to proposed evidence are not proper matters for pleading.).
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Opposition No. 91219851
408, statements made in settlement negotiations are not admissible to prove or
disprove a claim. Accordingly, we do not consider Applicants statements regarding
settlement negotiations.
B. Opposers Brief exceeds the page limits.
Trademark Rule 2.128(b), 37 C.F.R. § 2.128(b), provides that Opposers main brief
shall not exceed fifty-five pages in length in its entirety, including description of
the record. Any brief beyond the page limits and any brief with attachments
outside the stated requirements may not be considered by the Board. The only
subject that will be considered in an appendix to the brief is a statement of objections.
Id. Because Opposers brief is 92 pages consisting in part of a 37 page appendix
describing the record, Opposers brief exceeds the page limit without prior leave of
the Board, we have not considered Opposers brief.
C. Final decision remand to Examining Attorney.
Trademark Rule 2.131, 37 C.F.R. § 2.131, provides for a remand to the Trademark
Examining Attorney.
If, during an inter partes proceeding involving an
application under section 1 or 44 of the Act, facts are
disclosed which appear to render the mark unregistrable,
but such matter has been tried under the pleadings as filed
by the parties or as they might be deemed to be amended
under Rule 15(b) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure to
conform to the evidence, the Trademark Trial and Appeal
Board, in lieu of determining the matter in the decision on
the proceeding, may remand the application to the
trademark examining attorney for reexamination in the
event the applicant ultimately prevails in the inter partes
proceeding. Upon remand, the trademark examining
attorney shall reexamine the application in light of the
matter referenced by the Board. If, upon reexamination,
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Opposition No. 91219851
the trademark examining attorney finally refuses
registration to the applicant, an appeal may be taken as
provided by §§ 2.141 and 2.142.
Trademark Rule 2.131, 37 C.F.R. § 2.131.
As noted above, the mark sought to be registered is SUPER WOMAN OF REAL
ESTATE. Neither the original specimen of record, nor the substitute specimen,
displays the mark sought to be registered. To be clear, neither specimen includes
SUPER WOMAN OF REAL ESTATE. Accordingly, if Applicant ultimately prevails
in this case, we recommend, pursuant to Trademark Rule 2.131, the Examining
Attorney reexamine the application with respect to this issue.
II. The Record.
The record includes the pleadings and, by operation of Trademark Rule 2.122(b),
37 C.F.R. § 2.122(b), Applicants application file. Because Opposer attached to its
Notice of Opposition copies of its pleaded registrations printed from the USPTO
electronic database showing the current status and title to its registrations, those
registrations are also of record. See Trademark Rule 2.122(d)(1), 37 C.F.R. §
2.122(d)(1).
Only Opposer introduced testimony and evidence. Opposers testimony and
evidence are set forth below:
A. Notice of reliance on Applicants responses to Opposers interrogatories;16
B. Notice of reliance on the prosecution files for Opposers pleaded registrations;17
16 22 TTABVUE.
17 23 and 29 TTABVUE.
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Opposition No. 91219851
C. Notice of reliance on printed publications purportedly to show the history,
development, notoriety, strength and fame of Opposers SUPERMAN and
SUPER-formative marks;18
D. Notice of reliance on excerpts from websites purportedly to show the history,
development, notoriety, strength and fame of Opposers SUPERMAN and
SUPER-formative marks;19
E. Notice of reliance on printed publications purportedly to show the history,
development, notoriety, strength and fame of Opposers SUPERMAN and
SUPER-formative marks;20
F. Testimony deposition of Michael Gibbs, Senior Vice President of Fast Moving
Consumer Goods for Warner Brothers Entertainment, a division of Warner
Brothers Consumer Products, Inc., the licensing agent for Opposer, with
attached exhibits.21
III. Standing
Standing is a threshold issue that must be proven by the plaintiff in every inter
partes case. Any person who believes it is or will be damaged by registration of a mark
has standing to file an opposition. Trademark Act Section 13, 15 U.S.C. § 1063. Our
18 24 and 25 TTABVUE.
19 26 and 27 TTABVUE.
20 28 TTABVUE.
21 31-34 TTABVUE. The Gibbs deposition was designated as confidential. The entire
deposition is not of a confidential character. Pursuant to Trademark Rule 2.116(g), 37 C.F.R.
§ 2.166(g), [t]he Board may treat as not confidential that material which cannot reasonably
be considered confidential, notwithstanding a designation as such by a party.
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Opposition No. 91219851
primary reviewing court has enunciated a liberal threshold for determining standing,
namely that a plaintiff must demonstrate that it possesses a real interest in a
proceeding beyond that of a mere intermeddler, and a reasonable basis for his belief
of damage. Empresa Cubana Del Tabaco v. Gen. Cigar Co., 753 F.3d 1270, 111
USPQ2d 1058, 1062 (Fed. Cir. 2014) (quotation omitted), cert. denied, 135 S. Ct. 1401
(2015). A real interest is a direct and personal stake in the outcome of the
proceeding. Ritchie v. Simpson, 170 F.3d 1092, 50 USPQ2d 1023, 1026 (Fed. Cir.
1999).
In light of its pleaded ground of likelihood of confusion, Opposer’s introduction of
its pleaded registrations adequately establishes its interest in this proceeding and a
reasonable basis for its belief that damage would result from registration of
Applicant’s mark. Cunningham v. Laser Golf Corp., 222 F.3d 943, 55 USPQ2d 1842,
1844 (Fed. Cir. 2000); Lipton Indus., Inc. v. Ralston Purina Co., 670 F.2d 1024, 213
USPQ 185, 189 (CCPA 1982). Having established its standing with respect to its
likelihood of confusion claim, Opposer need not separately show its standing to assert
its claim of dilution. See, e.g., Coach Servs., Inc. v. Triumph Learning LLC, 668 F.3d
1356, 101 USPQ2d 1713, 1727-28 (Fed. Cir. 2012) (Coach”) (once an opposer meets
the requirements for standing, it can rely on any of the statutory grounds for
opposition set forth in 15 U.S.C. § 1052.); Anheuser-Busch, LLC v. Innvopak Sys. Pty
Ltd., 115 USPQ2d 1816, 1820 (TTAB 2015).
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Opposition No. 91219851
IV. Dilution
Dilution by blurring is association arising from the similarity between a mark or
trade name and a famous mark that impairs the distinctiveness of the famous mark.
Section 43(c)(2)(B) of the Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c)(2(B). Dilution may be
likely regardless of the presence or absence of actual or likely confusion, of
competition, or of actual economic injury. Section 43(c)(1) of the Trademark Act,
15 U.S.C. § 1125(c)(1).
Our primary reviewing court, the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, has set
forth the following four elements a plaintiff must prove in a Board proceeding in order
to prevail on a claim of dilution by blurring:
(1) [the plaintiff] owns a famous mark that is distinctive;
(2) the defendant is using a mark in commerce that
allegedly dilutes the plaintiff’s famous mark;
(3) the defendant’s use of its mark began after the
plaintiff’s mark became famous; and
(4) the defendant’s use of its mark is likely to cause dilution
by blurring or by tarnishment.
Coach, 101 USPQ2d at 1723-24.
A. The fame of Opposers marks and whether such fame was acquired prior to
Applicants first use of her involved mark.
Based upon Applicants admission that (i) the Superman lore is one of a rarefied
group of legends known and loved throughout the world and (ii) Opposers marks
have become famous marks and became famous prior to any date upon which
Applicant can rely, we find that Opposers marks SUPERMAN, SUPERWOMAN
and the appearance of Superman in his blue bodysuit with the letter S inside a five-
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Opposition No. 91219851
sided shield on the chest and a red cape are famous marks for purposes of dilution
and that those marks became famous prior to any date upon which Applicant may
rely.22 Opposer has therefore satisfied the first and third dilution elements.
B. Applicants use of her mark in commerce.
The second dilution element Opposer must establish is that Applicant is using her
allegedly diluting mark in commerce. An opposer asserting a dilution claim in a Board
proceeding against an application based on an allegation of actual use in commerce
pursuant to Section 1(a) of the Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1052(a), may prove
applicant’s use in commerce by direct evidence or rely on the application filing date
as the date of constructive use. See Chanel, Inc. v. Makarczyk, 110 USPQ2d 2013,
2023 (TTAB 2014); see also Omega SA (Omega AG) (Omega Ltd.) v. Alpha Phi Omega,
118 USPQ2d 1289, 1295 (TTAB 2016). In this case, we have the application filing
date and Applicants statement introduced by Opposer that Applicant started using
the mark in July 2011 on Facebook, and has continuously used it since.23
We therefore find that Opposer has satisfied the second dilution element.
C. Whether Applicants mark is likely to cause dilution?
The final element of our dilution analysis assesses whether Applicant’s mark is
likely to dilute Opposer’s marks. As noted supra, dilution by blurring occurs when a
substantial percentage of consumers, on seeing the junior party’s use of a mark in
connection with her services, are immediately reminded of the famous mark and
22Applicant, in her brief, did not contest that Opposers marks are famous for purposes of
dilution.
23 Applicants response to Opposers Interrogatory No. 4 (22 TTABVUE 4).
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Opposition No. 91219851
associate the junior party’s use with the owner of the famous mark, even if they do
not believe that the services emanate from the famous marks owner. N.Y. Yankees
Pship v. IET Prods. & Servs., Inc., 114 USPQ2d 1497, 1506 (TTAB 2015) (citing UMG
Recordings Inc. v. Mattel Inc., 100 USPQ2d 1868, 1888 (TTAB 2011) and Toro Co. v.
ToroHead Inc., 61 USPQ2d 1164, 1183 (TTAB 2001)).
The Trademark Act enumerates six non-exhaustive factors a tribunal may
consider in determining whether a mark is likely to cause dilution by blurring:
(i) The degree of similarity between the mark or trade name and the
famous mark;
(ii) The degree of inherent or acquired distinctiveness of the famous mark;
(ii) The extent to which the owner of the famous mark is engaging in
substantially exclusive use of the mark;
(iv) The degree of recognition of the famous mark;
(v) Whether the user of the mark or trade name intended to create an
association with the famous mark; and
(vi) Any actual association between the mark or trade name and the famous
mark.
Section 43(c)(B)(i)-(vi) of the Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c)(B)(i)-(vi).
1. The degree of similarity between Applicants mark and Opposers
famous marks.
The Board noted in National Pork Board v. Supreme Lobster & Seafood Co.,
96 USPQ2d 1479, 1497 (TTAB 2010), that,
after finding in the affirmative on the question of pre-
existing fame, an important question in a dilution case is
whether the two involved marks are sufficiently similar to
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Opposition No. 91219851
trigger consumers to conjure up a famous mark when
confronted with the second mark.
While we are not conducting a Section 2(d) likelihood of confusion analysis under
this factor for dilution by blurring, we still consider the degree of similarity or
dissimilarity of the marks in their entireties as to appearance, connotation, and
commercial impression. N.Y. Yankees Pship v. IET Prods. & Servs., Inc., 114 USPQ2d
at 1506; Research in Motion Ltd. v. Defining Presence Marketing Group Inc., 102
USPQ2d 1187, 1198 (TTAB 2012). We consider the marks in terms of whether they
are sufficiently similar in their overall commercial impressions that the required
association exists. N.Y. Yankees Pship v. IET Prods. & Servs., Inc., 114 USPQ2d at
1506; Nike Inc. v. Maher, 100 USPQ2d 1018, 1030 (TTAB 2011).
Applicant is seeking to register SUPER WOMAN OF REAL ESTATE in standard
characters. Examples of how Applicant uses her mark are set forth below:
24
24 26 TTABVUE 343 (October 30, 2014).
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Opposition No. 91219851
25
Opposer has used SUPERMAN and the appearance of Superman in his blue
bodysuit with the letter S inside a five-sided shield on the chest and a red cape.
Opposers marks are displayed below:26
25 26 TTABVUE 355.
26 Opposers marks are displayed in a specimen showing the marks in a combined Renewal
Application and Declaration of Use for Registration No. 1218552 for the mark SUPERMAN
(stylized), for advertising and promotional services namely, creative advertising for others
incorporating comic strip materials, licensing use of comic strip characters for promotional
purposes, and providing promotional services in connection with these licenses, in Class 35.
(23 TTABVUE 140).
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Opposition No. 91219851
Based on the manner in which Applicant has used her mark, the overall similarity
of the marks is immediately apparent. Applicants trade dress shows that Applicants
mark projects a similar, if not identical, commercial impression as that engendered
by Opposers marks. In fact, Applicant stated that [s]everal times a month since July
2011 clients, other agents, brokers, and prospective clients27 have referred
directly or indirectly to Opposer, Opposers Superman, Supergirl or Super Woman
characters, or Opposers Marks in connection with Applicants Mark.28
As our primary reviewing court has stated:
Ordinarily, for a word mark we do not look to the trade
dress, which can be changed at any time. Vornado, Inc. v.
Breuer Electric Mfg. Co., 390 F.2d 724, 156 USPQ 340, 342
(CCPA 1968). But the trade dress may nevertheless
provide evidence of whether the word mark projects a
confusingly similar commercial impression.
Kenner Parker Toys Inc. v. Rose Art Indus. Inc., 963 F.2d 350, 22 USPQ2d 1453, 1458
(Fed. Cir. 1992); see also Specialty Brands, Inc. v. Coffee Bean Distribs., Inc., 748 F.2d
669, 223 USPQ 1281, 1284 (Fed. Cir. 1984) (Applicants labels support rather than
negate that of which opposer complains: that SPICE VALLEY inherently creates a
27 Applicants response to Opposers Interrogatory No. 19 (22 TTABVUE 6).
28 Opposers Interrogatory No. 19 (22 TTABVUE 16).
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Opposition No. 91219851
commercial impression which is confusingly similar to that of SPICE ISLANDS.);
American Rice, Inc. v. H.I.T. Corp., 231 USPQ 793, 796 (TTAB 1986) (we may take
into account whether the trade dress of packages or labels in the application file as
specimens, or otherwise in evidence, may demonstrate that the trademark projects a
confusingly similar commercial impression.); Northwestern Golf Co. v. Acushnet Co.,
226 USPQ 240, 244 (TTAB 1985) (Evidence of the context in which a particular mark
is used on labels, packaging, etc., or in advertising is probative of the significance
which the mark is likely to project to purchasers.).
We find that Applicants mark is sufficiently similar to Opposers marks to trigger
consumers to conjure up Opposers famous marks. That is, consumers encountering
Applicants mark will immediately be reminded of Opposers famous SUPERMAN
mark and the appearance of Superman in his blue bodysuit with the letter S inside
a five-sided shield on the chest and a red cape and associate them.
2. The degree of inherent or acquired distinctiveness of Opposers
marks.
Opposers marks are inherently distinctive. Moreover, Applicant has admitted
that Opposers marks are famous, which necessarily subsumes a finding that the
marks have acquired distinctiveness.
3. The extent to which Opposer is engaging in substantially exclusive
use of its marks.
There is no evidence in the record of any third-party use of a word mark similar
to SUPERMAN or of the appearance of Superman in his blue bodysuit with the letter
S inside a five-sided shield on the chest and a red cape.
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Opposition No. 91219851
4. The degree of recognition of the Opposers marks.
Applicant, in her Answer, has admitted that it is beyond dispute that today the
Superman lore is one of a rarefied group of legends known and loved throughout the
world.29 In addition, the recognition of SUPERMAN has been reported in various
news media. For example,
A Cable News Network (CNN) wire story (December 30, 2011), The Union
Leader (December 4, 2011), The Chronicle of Higher Education (November 20, 2011),
and The New York Post (October 9, 2011) referred to Superman as an iconic
character;30
The Telegraph Herald (Dubuque, Iowa) (December 17, 2006) referred to
Superman as a household name.31
The Washington Times (December 15, 2011) referred to Superman as DC
Comics famed superhero;32
Advertising Age (November 2011) printed the following passage:
You dont tug on Supermans cape, Jim Croce told us in a
popular song. Thats probably good advice-a character like
the Man of Steel is worth millions of dollars in licensing,
merchandise and movies.33
29 Notice of Opposition ¶2 (1 TTABVUE 8); Applicants Answer (9 TTABVUE 2).
3028 TTABVUE 25 at 28; 28 TTABVUE 69 at 70; 28 TTABVUE 86 at 87; 28 TTABVUE 142
at 143.
31 28 TTABVUE 481.
32 28 TTABVUE 49 at 50.
33 28 TTABVUE 79.
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Opposition No. 91219851
The Chattanooga Times Free Press (December 28, 2006) reports that
Superman, Wonder Woman and the Incredible Hulk top the list of most requested
stamps at area U.S. Postal Service offices;34
The Star-Gazette (Elmira, New York) (December 21, 2006) reports
In todays world, people need a Superman and a Spider-
Man just as much as they need Santa Claus. As actor
Marlon Brando, when asked about his work on Superman:
The Motion Picture, said, We must preserve the myth.35
The SUPERMAN media references corroborate Opposers internal market
research for familiarity and general awareness in which SUPERMAN scores very
high.36
This renown has translated into substantial licensing revenues. Michael Gibbs,
Senior Vice President of Fast Moving Consumer Goods, and formerly the Senior Vice
President of Licensing and Business Development, for Warner Brothers
Entertainment, a division of Warner Brothers Consumer Products, Inc., the licensing
agent for Opposer, testified that BATMAN and SUPERMAN are Opposers strongest
properties in terms of revenue[,] familiarity, reach, size and scope of our overall
licensing programs in terms of amount of licensees and the amount of products that
34 28 TTABVUE 477.
35 28 TTABVUE 480 at 481.
36 Gibbs Dep., pp 52-56 and Exhibit 11 (31 TTABVUE 55-59 and 32 TTABVUE 353-626),
Opposers market research has been designated confidential and, therefore, we may refer to
it only in general terms.
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Opposition No. 91219851
we develop.37 SUPERMAN is licensed across all major product categories.38 Opposer
has licensed Superman for movies in the 1970s, 2006 and 2013, television shows,
including Smallville and Lois and Clark, the Lego Superheroes video game, and a
SUPERGIRL television show.39 The revenues generated through Opposers licensing
program is substantial.40
We find that SUPERMAN and the appearance of Superman in his blue bodysuit
with the letter S inside a five-sided shield on the chest and a red cape has attracted
widespread recognition and success as a source of Opposers goods and services.
5. Whether Applicant intended to create an association with Opposers
marks.
Considering Applicants use of a blue bodysuit with the letters SW inside a five-
sided shield on the chest and a red cape, which are extremely similar to the
SUPERMAN indicia, the only possible conclusion that we can reach is that Applicant
intended to create an association with Opposers SUPERMAN character and marks.
6. Any actual association between the mark or trade name and famous
mark.
As noted above, [s]everal times a month since July 2011 clients, other agents,
brokers, and prospective clients41 have referred directly or indirectly to Opposer,
Gibbs Dep., p. 15 (31 TTABVUE 18). BATMAN is Opposers biggest property followed by
37
SUPERMAN. Gibbs Dep., p. 22 (31 TTABVUE 22).
38 Gibbs Dep., p. 28-29 (31 TTABVUE 31-32).
39 Gibbs Dep., pp. 16, 18, 20 (31 TTABVUE 19, 21, 23).
40Gibbs Dep., pp. 22-23 (31 TTABVUE 25-26). Opposers licensing revenues have been
designated confidential and, therefore, we may refer to them only in general terms.
41 Applicants response to Opposers Interrogatory No. 19 (22 TTABVUE 6).
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Opposition No. 91219851
Opposers Superman, Supergirl or Super Woman characters, or Opposers Marks in
connection with Applicants Mark.42 Accordingly, there has been actual association
between Applicants mark and Opposers marks.
D. Analyzing the factors.
Having considered all of the evidence properly of record, we find that the dilution
by blurring factors weigh in Opposers favor. Opposers marks are famous and became
famous before Applicant adopted her mark. The marks are sufficiently similar that
an association between them is established as shown by the evidence of actual
association between the marks. Opposers marks are inherently distinctive and the
degree of public recognition is high. Applicant intended to create an association with
Opposers marks, and third parties have actually associated Applicants mark with
Opposers marks. Accordingly, we find that Applicants mark is likely to dilute
Opposers marks.
Having determined that Opposer is entitled to prevail in this proceeding based
upon its dilution claim, we need not reach Opposers likelihood of confusion claim. See
American Paging Inc. v. American Mobilphone Inc., 13 USPQ2d 2036, 2039 (TTAB
1989), aff’d unpublished, 932 F.2d 869, 17 USPQ2d 1726 (Fed. Cir. 1990) (Having
determined that petitioner is entitled to the relief it seeks based upon its claim
pursuant to Section 2(d) of the Lanham Act, we need not address petitioner’s claim
that registrant has abandoned its rights in the mark AMERICAN MOBILPHONE
PAGING and design.). Accord Venture Out Props. LLC. v. Wynn Resorts Holdings
42 Opposers Interrogatory No. 19 (22 TTABVUE 16).
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Opposition No. 91219851
LLC, 81 USPQ2d 1887, 1894 (TTAB 2007) (In view of our decision finding a
likelihood of confusion, we need not reach the issue of dilution.); Interglo AG v.
Abrams/Gentile Entertainment Inc. 63 USPQ2d 1862, 1864 (TTAB 2002) (Having
found that there exists a likelihood of confusion, we elect to sustain the opposition on
this basis alone.).
Decision: The opposition is sustained on Opposers claim of dilution, and
registration to Applicant is refused.
– 21 –
THIS OPINION IS NOT A
PRECEDENT OF THE TTAB
Mailed: August 17, 2017
UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
_____
Trademark Trial and Appeal Board
_____
DC Comics
v.
Deanna Rivetti
_____
Opposition No. 91219851
_____
James D. Weinberger of Fross Zelnick Lehrman & Zissu PC,
for DC Comics.
David Barlavi of the Law Office of David Barlavi,
for Deanna Rivetti.
_____
Before Bergsman, Masiello and Pologeorgis,
Administrative Trademark Judges.
Opinion by Bergsman, Administrative Trademark Judge:
Deanna Rivetti (Applicant) seeks registration on the Principal Register of the
mark SUPER WOMAN OF REAL ESTATE (in standard characters) for real estate
procurement for others, in Class 36.1 Applicant disclaimed the exclusive right to use
the term Real Estate.
1 Application Serial No. 86240703 was filed on April 2, 2014, under Section 1(a) of the
Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1052(a), based upon Applicants claim of first use anywhere and
use in commerce since at least as early as August 2, 2011.
Opposition No. 91219851
DC Comics (Opposer) filed a Notice of Opposition against the registration of
Applicants mark on the ground of likelihood of confusion and dilution by blurring
pursuant to Sections 2(d) and 43(c) of the Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. §§ 1052(d) and
1125(c). Opposer pleaded ownership of, inter alia, the registered trademarks listed
below:
Registration No. 1181536 for the mark SUPERMAN (typed drawing form) for
entertainment services namely, series of motion pictures, television programs,
animated cartoon films, in Class 41;2
Registration No. 1216976 for the mark SUPERMAN (typed drawing form) for
advertising and promotional services namely, creating advertising for others
incorporating comic strip materials, in Class 35;3
Registration No. 1218552 for the mark SUPERMAN (stylized), shown below, for
advertising and promotional services namely, creative advertising for others
incorporating comic strip materials, licensing use of comic strip characters for
promotional purposes, and providing promotional services in connection with these
licenses, in Class 35;4 and
2 Registered December 8, 1991; second renewal.
3 Registered November 16, 1982; second renewal.
4 Registered November 30, 1982; second renewal.
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Opposition No. 91219851
Registration No. 3784483 for the mark SUPERWOMAN (standard characters)
for action figures and accessories therefor, in Class 28.5
In addition, Opposer alleged common law use of the SUPERMAN, SUPERGIRL,
and SUPERWOMAN trademarks, and the appearance of Superman in his blue
bodysuit (and the appearance of SUPERGIRL in her blue top) with the letter S inside
a five-sided shield on the chest and red cape in connection with literary and
entertainment works and various goods and services.6
Applicant, in her Answer, made the following admissions:
Opposer has created and published highly successful and well-known
characters, including Superman, Superwoman;7
Due to Opposers extraordinary nurturing of the Superman mythos, the
character and his universe have captured popular imagination, and it is beyond
dispute that today the Superman lore is one of a rarefied group of legends known and
loved throughout the world.;8
Superman has become associated with certain symbols and indicia which, in
the public mind, are inextricably linked with the Superman character and which
function as trademarks, both for literary and entertainment works featuring
Superman and related characters and for various goods and services for which
5 Registered May 4, 2010; Sections 8 and 15 affidavits accepted and acknowledged.
6 Notice of Opposition ¶3 (1 TTABVUE 8).
7 Notice of Opposition ¶1 (1 TTABVUE 7) and Answer ¶1 (9 TTABVUE 2).
8 Notice of Opposition ¶2 (1 TTABVUE 8) and Answer ¶2 (9 TTABVUE 2).
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Opposition No. 91219851
Opposer has licensed others to use these marks, including SUPERMAN,
SUPERWOMAN, and the appearance of Superman in his blue bodysuit with the
letter S inside a five-sided shield on the chest and a red cape.;9
Opposer has use prior to any date upon which Applicant may rely in connection
with Opposers marks SUPERMAN, SUPERWOMAN, and the appearance of
Superman in his blue bodysuit with the letter S inside a five-sided shield on the
chest and a red cape;10
Opposers marks SUPERMAN, SUPERWOMAN and the appearance of
Superman in his blue bodysuit with the letter S inside a five-sided shield on the
chest and a red cape have become famous marks and became famous prior to any date
upon which Applicant may rely;11 and
Opposers ownership of and current status to its pleaded registrations.12
Applicant denied the remaining allegations in the Notice of Opposition.
I. Preliminary Issues.
A. Applicants statement of Substantive Arguments in Favor of Application,
with attached exhibits.
Applicant, in her Answer, included a statement of Substantive Arguments in
Favor of Application, with attached exhibits.13 Applicant should not, in her answer,
9 Notice of Opposition ¶3 (1 TTABVUE 8) and Answer ¶3 (9 TTABVUE 2).
10 Notice of Opposition ¶4 (1 TTABVUE 8-9) and Answer ¶4 (9 TTABVUE 2); see also Notice
of Opposition ¶¶ 11 and 12 (1 TTABVUE 12) and Answer ¶¶11 and 12 (9 TTABVUE 4).
11 Notice of Opposition ¶6 (1 TTABVUE 9) and Answer ¶6 (9 TTABVUE 3).
12 Notice of Opposition ¶7 (1 TTABVUE 9-11) and Answer ¶7 (9 TTABVUE 3).
13 Answer p. 6 (9 TTABVUE 7).
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Opposition No. 91219851
argue the merits of the allegations in the complaint but rather should state, as to
each of the allegations contained in the complaint, that the allegation is either
admitted or denied. Trademark Rule 2.106(b)(2), 37 C.F.R § 2.106(b)(2); Fed. R. Civ.
P. 8(b). However, an answer may include a short and plain statement of any defenses,
including affirmative defenses that Applicant may have to the claim or claims
asserted by Opposer.14 Also, evidentiary matters upon which Applicant intends to
rely should not be included in an answer. They are matters for proof, not for
pleading.15
Applicants statement of Substantive Arguments in Favor of Application is an
amplification of why Applicant believes that there is no likelihood of confusion. She
does not present any defenses or affirmative defenses.
The exhibits attached to Applicants Answer may not be considered. See
Trademark Rule 2.122(c), 37 C.F.R. § 2.122(c) (an exhibit attached to a pleading is
not evidence on behalf of the party to whose pleading the exhibit is attached, and
must be identified and introduced in evidence as an exhibit during the period for the
taking of testimony.).
Finally, in the Substantive Arguments in Favor of Application, Applicant
reviews her settlement discussions with Opposer to show that the parties had reached
a preliminary agreement to resolve their trademark issues. Pursuant to Fed. R. Evid.
14 Trademark Rule 2.106(b)(2); 37 C.F.R. § 2.106(b)(2); Fed. R. Civ. P. 8(b).
15See McCormick & Co. v. Hygrade Food Prods. Corp., 124 USPQ 16, 17 (TTAB 1959) (while
applicant may in due course introduce any evidence which it considers to be relevant to its
case, statements as to proposed evidence are not proper matters for pleading.).
-5-
Opposition No. 91219851
408, statements made in settlement negotiations are not admissible to prove or
disprove a claim. Accordingly, we do not consider Applicants statements regarding
settlement negotiations.
B. Opposers Brief exceeds the page limits.
Trademark Rule 2.128(b), 37 C.F.R. § 2.128(b), provides that Opposers main brief
shall not exceed fifty-five pages in length in its entirety, including description of
the record. Any brief beyond the page limits and any brief with attachments
outside the stated requirements may not be considered by the Board. The only
subject that will be considered in an appendix to the brief is a statement of objections.
Id. Because Opposers brief is 92 pages consisting in part of a 37 page appendix
describing the record, Opposers brief exceeds the page limit without prior leave of
the Board, we have not considered Opposers brief.
C. Final decision remand to Examining Attorney.
Trademark Rule 2.131, 37 C.F.R. § 2.131, provides for a remand to the Trademark
Examining Attorney.
If, during an inter partes proceeding involving an
application under section 1 or 44 of the Act, facts are
disclosed which appear to render the mark unregistrable,
but such matter has been tried under the pleadings as filed
by the parties or as they might be deemed to be amended
under Rule 15(b) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure to
conform to the evidence, the Trademark Trial and Appeal
Board, in lieu of determining the matter in the decision on
the proceeding, may remand the application to the
trademark examining attorney for reexamination in the
event the applicant ultimately prevails in the inter partes
proceeding. Upon remand, the trademark examining
attorney shall reexamine the application in light of the
matter referenced by the Board. If, upon reexamination,
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Opposition No. 91219851
the trademark examining attorney finally refuses
registration to the applicant, an appeal may be taken as
provided by §§ 2.141 and 2.142.
Trademark Rule 2.131, 37 C.F.R. § 2.131.
As noted above, the mark sought to be registered is SUPER WOMAN OF REAL
ESTATE. Neither the original specimen of record, nor the substitute specimen,
displays the mark sought to be registered. To be clear, neither specimen includes
SUPER WOMAN OF REAL ESTATE. Accordingly, if Applicant ultimately prevails
in this case, we recommend, pursuant to Trademark Rule 2.131, the Examining
Attorney reexamine the application with respect to this issue.
II. The Record.
The record includes the pleadings and, by operation of Trademark Rule 2.122(b),
37 C.F.R. § 2.122(b), Applicants application file. Because Opposer attached to its
Notice of Opposition copies of its pleaded registrations printed from the USPTO
electronic database showing the current status and title to its registrations, those
registrations are also of record. See Trademark Rule 2.122(d)(1), 37 C.F.R. §
2.122(d)(1).
Only Opposer introduced testimony and evidence. Opposers testimony and
evidence are set forth below:
A. Notice of reliance on Applicants responses to Opposers interrogatories;16
B. Notice of reliance on the prosecution files for Opposers pleaded registrations;17
16 22 TTABVUE.
17 23 and 29 TTABVUE.
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Opposition No. 91219851
C. Notice of reliance on printed publications purportedly to show the history,
development, notoriety, strength and fame of Opposers SUPERMAN and
SUPER-formative marks;18
D. Notice of reliance on excerpts from websites purportedly to show the history,
development, notoriety, strength and fame of Opposers SUPERMAN and
SUPER-formative marks;19
E. Notice of reliance on printed publications purportedly to show the history,
development, notoriety, strength and fame of Opposers SUPERMAN and
SUPER-formative marks;20
F. Testimony deposition of Michael Gibbs, Senior Vice President of Fast Moving
Consumer Goods for Warner Brothers Entertainment, a division of Warner
Brothers Consumer Products, Inc., the licensing agent for Opposer, with
attached exhibits.21
III. Standing
Standing is a threshold issue that must be proven by the plaintiff in every inter
partes case. Any person who believes it is or will be damaged by registration of a mark
has standing to file an opposition. Trademark Act Section 13, 15 U.S.C. § 1063. Our
18 24 and 25 TTABVUE.
19 26 and 27 TTABVUE.
20 28 TTABVUE.
21 31-34 TTABVUE. The Gibbs deposition was designated as confidential. The entire
deposition is not of a confidential character. Pursuant to Trademark Rule 2.116(g), 37 C.F.R.
§ 2.166(g), [t]he Board may treat as not confidential that material which cannot reasonably
be considered confidential, notwithstanding a designation as such by a party.
-8-
Opposition No. 91219851
primary reviewing court has enunciated a liberal threshold for determining standing,
namely that a plaintiff must demonstrate that it possesses a real interest in a
proceeding beyond that of a mere intermeddler, and a reasonable basis for his belief
of damage. Empresa Cubana Del Tabaco v. Gen. Cigar Co., 753 F.3d 1270, 111
USPQ2d 1058, 1062 (Fed. Cir. 2014) (quotation omitted), cert. denied, 135 S. Ct. 1401
(2015). A real interest is a direct and personal stake in the outcome of the
proceeding. Ritchie v. Simpson, 170 F.3d 1092, 50 USPQ2d 1023, 1026 (Fed. Cir.
1999).
In light of its pleaded ground of likelihood of confusion, Opposer’s introduction of
its pleaded registrations adequately establishes its interest in this proceeding and a
reasonable basis for its belief that damage would result from registration of
Applicant’s mark. Cunningham v. Laser Golf Corp., 222 F.3d 943, 55 USPQ2d 1842,
1844 (Fed. Cir. 2000); Lipton Indus., Inc. v. Ralston Purina Co., 670 F.2d 1024, 213
USPQ 185, 189 (CCPA 1982). Having established its standing with respect to its
likelihood of confusion claim, Opposer need not separately show its standing to assert
its claim of dilution. See, e.g., Coach Servs., Inc. v. Triumph Learning LLC, 668 F.3d
1356, 101 USPQ2d 1713, 1727-28 (Fed. Cir. 2012) (Coach”) (once an opposer meets
the requirements for standing, it can rely on any of the statutory grounds for
opposition set forth in 15 U.S.C. § 1052.); Anheuser-Busch, LLC v. Innvopak Sys. Pty
Ltd., 115 USPQ2d 1816, 1820 (TTAB 2015).
-9-
Opposition No. 91219851
IV. Dilution
Dilution by blurring is association arising from the similarity between a mark or
trade name and a famous mark that impairs the distinctiveness of the famous mark.
Section 43(c)(2)(B) of the Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c)(2(B). Dilution may be
likely regardless of the presence or absence of actual or likely confusion, of
competition, or of actual economic injury. Section 43(c)(1) of the Trademark Act,
15 U.S.C. § 1125(c)(1).
Our primary reviewing court, the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, has set
forth the following four elements a plaintiff must prove in a Board proceeding in order
to prevail on a claim of dilution by blurring:
(1) [the plaintiff] owns a famous mark that is distinctive;
(2) the defendant is using a mark in commerce that
allegedly dilutes the plaintiff’s famous mark;
(3) the defendant’s use of its mark began after the
plaintiff’s mark became famous; and
(4) the defendant’s use of its mark is likely to cause dilution
by blurring or by tarnishment.
Coach, 101 USPQ2d at 1723-24.
A. The fame of Opposers marks and whether such fame was acquired prior to
Applicants first use of her involved mark.
Based upon Applicants admission that (i) the Superman lore is one of a rarefied
group of legends known and loved throughout the world and (ii) Opposers marks
have become famous marks and became famous prior to any date upon which
Applicant can rely, we find that Opposers marks SUPERMAN, SUPERWOMAN
and the appearance of Superman in his blue bodysuit with the letter S inside a five-
– 10 –
Opposition No. 91219851
sided shield on the chest and a red cape are famous marks for purposes of dilution
and that those marks became famous prior to any date upon which Applicant may
rely.22 Opposer has therefore satisfied the first and third dilution elements.
B. Applicants use of her mark in commerce.
The second dilution element Opposer must establish is that Applicant is using her
allegedly diluting mark in commerce. An opposer asserting a dilution claim in a Board
proceeding against an application based on an allegation of actual use in commerce
pursuant to Section 1(a) of the Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1052(a), may prove
applicant’s use in commerce by direct evidence or rely on the application filing date
as the date of constructive use. See Chanel, Inc. v. Makarczyk, 110 USPQ2d 2013,
2023 (TTAB 2014); see also Omega SA (Omega AG) (Omega Ltd.) v. Alpha Phi Omega,
118 USPQ2d 1289, 1295 (TTAB 2016). In this case, we have the application filing
date and Applicants statement introduced by Opposer that Applicant started using
the mark in July 2011 on Facebook, and has continuously used it since.23
We therefore find that Opposer has satisfied the second dilution element.
C. Whether Applicants mark is likely to cause dilution?
The final element of our dilution analysis assesses whether Applicant’s mark is
likely to dilute Opposer’s marks. As noted supra, dilution by blurring occurs when a
substantial percentage of consumers, on seeing the junior party’s use of a mark in
connection with her services, are immediately reminded of the famous mark and
22Applicant, in her brief, did not contest that Opposers marks are famous for purposes of
dilution.
23 Applicants response to Opposers Interrogatory No. 4 (22 TTABVUE 4).
– 11 –
Opposition No. 91219851
associate the junior party’s use with the owner of the famous mark, even if they do
not believe that the services emanate from the famous marks owner. N.Y. Yankees
Pship v. IET Prods. & Servs., Inc., 114 USPQ2d 1497, 1506 (TTAB 2015) (citing UMG
Recordings Inc. v. Mattel Inc., 100 USPQ2d 1868, 1888 (TTAB 2011) and Toro Co. v.
ToroHead Inc., 61 USPQ2d 1164, 1183 (TTAB 2001)).
The Trademark Act enumerates six non-exhaustive factors a tribunal may
consider in determining whether a mark is likely to cause dilution by blurring:
(i) The degree of similarity between the mark or trade name and the
famous mark;
(ii) The degree of inherent or acquired distinctiveness of the famous mark;
(ii) The extent to which the owner of the famous mark is engaging in
substantially exclusive use of the mark;
(iv) The degree of recognition of the famous mark;
(v) Whether the user of the mark or trade name intended to create an
association with the famous mark; and
(vi) Any actual association between the mark or trade name and the famous
mark.
Section 43(c)(B)(i)-(vi) of the Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(c)(B)(i)-(vi).
1. The degree of similarity between Applicants mark and Opposers
famous marks.
The Board noted in National Pork Board v. Supreme Lobster & Seafood Co.,
96 USPQ2d 1479, 1497 (TTAB 2010), that,
after finding in the affirmative on the question of pre-
existing fame, an important question in a dilution case is
whether the two involved marks are sufficiently similar to
– 12 –
Opposition No. 91219851
trigger consumers to conjure up a famous mark when
confronted with the second mark.
While we are not conducting a Section 2(d) likelihood of confusion analysis under
this factor for dilution by blurring, we still consider the degree of similarity or
dissimilarity of the marks in their entireties as to appearance, connotation, and
commercial impression. N.Y. Yankees Pship v. IET Prods. & Servs., Inc., 114 USPQ2d
at 1506; Research in Motion Ltd. v. Defining Presence Marketing Group Inc., 102
USPQ2d 1187, 1198 (TTAB 2012). We consider the marks in terms of whether they
are sufficiently similar in their overall commercial impressions that the required
association exists. N.Y. Yankees Pship v. IET Prods. & Servs., Inc., 114 USPQ2d at
1506; Nike Inc. v. Maher, 100 USPQ2d 1018, 1030 (TTAB 2011).
Applicant is seeking to register SUPER WOMAN OF REAL ESTATE in standard
characters. Examples of how Applicant uses her mark are set forth below:
24
24 26 TTABVUE 343 (October 30, 2014).
– 13 –
Opposition No. 91219851
25
Opposer has used SUPERMAN and the appearance of Superman in his blue
bodysuit with the letter S inside a five-sided shield on the chest and a red cape.
Opposers marks are displayed below:26
25 26 TTABVUE 355.
26 Opposers marks are displayed in a specimen showing the marks in a combined Renewal
Application and Declaration of Use for Registration No. 1218552 for the mark SUPERMAN
(stylized), for advertising and promotional services namely, creative advertising for others
incorporating comic strip materials, licensing use of comic strip characters for promotional
purposes, and providing promotional services in connection with these licenses, in Class 35.
(23 TTABVUE 140).
– 14 –
Opposition No. 91219851
Based on the manner in which Applicant has used her mark, the overall similarity
of the marks is immediately apparent. Applicants trade dress shows that Applicants
mark projects a similar, if not identical, commercial impression as that engendered
by Opposers marks. In fact, Applicant stated that [s]everal times a month since July
2011 clients, other agents, brokers, and prospective clients27 have referred
directly or indirectly to Opposer, Opposers Superman, Supergirl or Super Woman
characters, or Opposers Marks in connection with Applicants Mark.28
As our primary reviewing court has stated:
Ordinarily, for a word mark we do not look to the trade
dress, which can be changed at any time. Vornado, Inc. v.
Breuer Electric Mfg. Co., 390 F.2d 724, 156 USPQ 340, 342
(CCPA 1968). But the trade dress may nevertheless
provide evidence of whether the word mark projects a
confusingly similar commercial impression.
Kenner Parker Toys Inc. v. Rose Art Indus. Inc., 963 F.2d 350, 22 USPQ2d 1453, 1458
(Fed. Cir. 1992); see also Specialty Brands, Inc. v. Coffee Bean Distribs., Inc., 748 F.2d
669, 223 USPQ 1281, 1284 (Fed. Cir. 1984) (Applicants labels support rather than
negate that of which opposer complains: that SPICE VALLEY inherently creates a
27 Applicants response to Opposers Interrogatory No. 19 (22 TTABVUE 6).
28 Opposers Interrogatory No. 19 (22 TTABVUE 16).
– 15 –
Opposition No. 91219851
commercial impression which is confusingly similar to that of SPICE ISLANDS.);
American Rice, Inc. v. H.I.T. Corp., 231 USPQ 793, 796 (TTAB 1986) (we may take
into account whether the trade dress of packages or labels in the application file as
specimens, or otherwise in evidence, may demonstrate that the trademark projects a
confusingly similar commercial impression.); Northwestern Golf Co. v. Acushnet Co.,
226 USPQ 240, 244 (TTAB 1985) (Evidence of the context in which a particular mark
is used on labels, packaging, etc., or in advertising is probative of the significance
which the mark is likely to project to purchasers.).
We find that Applicants mark is sufficiently similar to Opposers marks to trigger
consumers to conjure up Opposers famous marks. That is, consumers encountering
Applicants mark will immediately be reminded of Opposers famous SUPERMAN
mark and the appearance of Superman in his blue bodysuit with the letter S inside
a five-sided shield on the chest and a red cape and associate them.
2. The degree of inherent or acquired distinctiveness of Opposers
marks.
Opposers marks are inherently distinctive. Moreover, Applicant has admitted
that Opposers marks are famous, which necessarily subsumes a finding that the
marks have acquired distinctiveness.
3. The extent to which Opposer is engaging in substantially exclusive
use of its marks.
There is no evidence in the record of any third-party use of a word mark similar
to SUPERMAN or of the appearance of Superman in his blue bodysuit with the letter
S inside a five-sided shield on the chest and a red cape.
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Opposition No. 91219851
4. The degree of recognition of the Opposers marks.
Applicant, in her Answer, has admitted that it is beyond dispute that today the
Superman lore is one of a rarefied group of legends known and loved throughout the
world.29 In addition, the recognition of SUPERMAN has been reported in various
news media. For example,
A Cable News Network (CNN) wire story (December 30, 2011), The Union
Leader (December 4, 2011), The Chronicle of Higher Education (November 20, 2011),
and The New York Post (October 9, 2011) referred to Superman as an iconic
character;30
The Telegraph Herald (Dubuque, Iowa) (December 17, 2006) referred to
Superman as a household name.31
The Washington Times (December 15, 2011) referred to Superman as DC
Comics famed superhero;32
Advertising Age (November 2011) printed the following passage:
You dont tug on Supermans cape, Jim Croce told us in a
popular song. Thats probably good advice-a character like
the Man of Steel is worth millions of dollars in licensing,
merchandise and movies.33
29 Notice of Opposition ¶2 (1 TTABVUE 8); Applicants Answer (9 TTABVUE 2).
3028 TTABVUE 25 at 28; 28 TTABVUE 69 at 70; 28 TTABVUE 86 at 87; 28 TTABVUE 142
at 143.
31 28 TTABVUE 481.
32 28 TTABVUE 49 at 50.
33 28 TTABVUE 79.
– 17 –
Opposition No. 91219851
The Chattanooga Times Free Press (December 28, 2006) reports that
Superman, Wonder Woman and the Incredible Hulk top the list of most requested
stamps at area U.S. Postal Service offices;34
The Star-Gazette (Elmira, New York) (December 21, 2006) reports
In todays world, people need a Superman and a Spider-
Man just as much as they need Santa Claus. As actor
Marlon Brando, when asked about his work on Superman:
The Motion Picture, said, We must preserve the myth.35
The SUPERMAN media references corroborate Opposers internal market
research for familiarity and general awareness in which SUPERMAN scores very
high.36
This renown has translated into substantial licensing revenues. Michael Gibbs,
Senior Vice President of Fast Moving Consumer Goods, and formerly the Senior Vice
President of Licensing and Business Development, for Warner Brothers
Entertainment, a division of Warner Brothers Consumer Products, Inc., the licensing
agent for Opposer, testified that BATMAN and SUPERMAN are Opposers strongest
properties in terms of revenue[,] familiarity, reach, size and scope of our overall
licensing programs in terms of amount of licensees and the amount of products that
34 28 TTABVUE 477.
35 28 TTABVUE 480 at 481.
36 Gibbs Dep., pp 52-56 and Exhibit 11 (31 TTABVUE 55-59 and 32 TTABVUE 353-626),
Opposers market research has been designated confidential and, therefore, we may refer to
it only in general terms.
– 18 –
Opposition No. 91219851
we develop.37 SUPERMAN is licensed across all major product categories.38 Opposer
has licensed Superman for movies in the 1970s, 2006 and 2013, television shows,
including Smallville and Lois and Clark, the Lego Superheroes video game, and a
SUPERGIRL television show.39 The revenues generated through Opposers licensing
program is substantial.40
We find that SUPERMAN and the appearance of Superman in his blue bodysuit
with the letter S inside a five-sided shield on the chest and a red cape has attracted
widespread recognition and success as a source of Opposers goods and services.
5. Whether Applicant intended to create an association with Opposers
marks.
Considering Applicants use of a blue bodysuit with the letters SW inside a five-
sided shield on the chest and a red cape, which are extremely similar to the
SUPERMAN indicia, the only possible conclusion that we can reach is that Applicant
intended to create an association with Opposers SUPERMAN character and marks.
6. Any actual association between the mark or trade name and famous
mark.
As noted above, [s]everal times a month since July 2011 clients, other agents,
brokers, and prospective clients41 have referred directly or indirectly to Opposer,
Gibbs Dep., p. 15 (31 TTABVUE 18). BATMAN is Opposers biggest property followed by
37
SUPERMAN. Gibbs Dep., p. 22 (31 TTABVUE 22).
38 Gibbs Dep., p. 28-29 (31 TTABVUE 31-32).
39 Gibbs Dep., pp. 16, 18, 20 (31 TTABVUE 19, 21, 23).
40Gibbs Dep., pp. 22-23 (31 TTABVUE 25-26). Opposers licensing revenues have been
designated confidential and, therefore, we may refer to them only in general terms.
41 Applicants response to Opposers Interrogatory No. 19 (22 TTABVUE 6).
– 19 –
Opposition No. 91219851
Opposers Superman, Supergirl or Super Woman characters, or Opposers Marks in
connection with Applicants Mark.42 Accordingly, there has been actual association
between Applicants mark and Opposers marks.
D. Analyzing the factors.
Having considered all of the evidence properly of record, we find that the dilution
by blurring factors weigh in Opposers favor. Opposers marks are famous and became
famous before Applicant adopted her mark. The marks are sufficiently similar that
an association between them is established as shown by the evidence of actual
association between the marks. Opposers marks are inherently distinctive and the
degree of public recognition is high. Applicant intended to create an association with
Opposers marks, and third parties have actually associated Applicants mark with
Opposers marks. Accordingly, we find that Applicants mark is likely to dilute
Opposers marks.
Having determined that Opposer is entitled to prevail in this proceeding based
upon its dilution claim, we need not reach Opposers likelihood of confusion claim. See
American Paging Inc. v. American Mobilphone Inc., 13 USPQ2d 2036, 2039 (TTAB
1989), aff’d unpublished, 932 F.2d 869, 17 USPQ2d 1726 (Fed. Cir. 1990) (Having
determined that petitioner is entitled to the relief it seeks based upon its claim
pursuant to Section 2(d) of the Lanham Act, we need not address petitioner’s claim
that registrant has abandoned its rights in the mark AMERICAN MOBILPHONE
PAGING and design.). Accord Venture Out Props. LLC. v. Wynn Resorts Holdings
42 Opposers Interrogatory No. 19 (22 TTABVUE 16).
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Opposition No. 91219851
LLC, 81 USPQ2d 1887, 1894 (TTAB 2007) (In view of our decision finding a
likelihood of confusion, we need not reach the issue of dilution.); Interglo AG v.
Abrams/Gentile Entertainment Inc. 63 USPQ2d 1862, 1864 (TTAB 2002) (Having
found that there exists a likelihood of confusion, we elect to sustain the opposition on
this basis alone.).
Decision: The opposition is sustained on Opposers claim of dilution, and
registration to Applicant is refused.
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