Pepperdine to Continue Defense of Waves Trademark Against Netflix, Warner Bros. Infringement

MALIBU, Calif. – The court today declined Pepperdine University’s request for a temporary restraining order against Netflix, Inc., and Warner Bros. Entertainment, Inc., for the unauthorized use of Pepperdine’s Waves trademarks and branding as a central focus of the series Running Point. The case will now continue on its regular course. 

“Our trademark is more than just a symbol—it represents the legacy, values, and excellence that Pepperdine has upheld for decades,” said Sean Burnett, Pepperdine University senior vice president and chief marketing officer. “We do not believe Netflix and Warner Bros. can be permitted to take the Waves trademarks and colors we have used for almost 90 years to identify Pepperdine to instead identify the team that is the subject of their series. While we are disappointed with today’s ruling, we believe the University will ultimately prevail and prevent the continued unauthorized use of Pepperdine’s intellectual property in a way that misrepresents our institution.”

Pepperdine University remains committed to excellence in education, athletics, and character formation, and it will continue to protect its legacy and brand from any unauthorized or misleading depictions.

Pepperdine's complaint is available here. Media assets from the complaint document are available here.

About Pepperdine University
Founded in 1937, Pepperdine University is an independent, Christian university located 30 miles west of Downtown Los Angeles in scenic Malibu, California. The University enrolls approximately 10,300 students across its flagship liberal arts school, Seaver College; the College of Health Science, and four graduate schools—the Caruso School of Law; the Graziadio Business School; the Graduate School of Education and Psychology; and the School of Public Policy. Pepperdine is committed to the highest standards of academic excellence and Christian values, where students are strengthened for lives of purpose, service, and leadership. Follow Pepperdine on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

 

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