Live Nation Hit With $5 Billion Class Action Lawsuit as DOJ Battle Intensifies
Live Nation and Ticketmaster face a $5 billion consumer class action lawsuit following the Department of Justice's recent move to break up the entertainment giants. This lawsuit, filed in Manhattan federal court, represents millions of ticket buyers and alleges monopolistic practices in the live events industry.
The lawsuit accuses Live Nation of:
- Forcing out industry rivals
- Threatening venues that work with competitors
- Engaging in anti-competitive conduct
US District Judge Arun Subramanian will oversee the case, with plaintiffs represented by attorneys from Israel David and Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd.
Concert crowd at outdoor venue
The DOJ's current case differs from its 2010 action, focusing on more extensive anti-competitive behavior since the Live Nation-Ticketmaster merger. While Live Nation dismisses the allegations as "baseless," claiming increased market competition, their failure to follow previously agreed-upon merger guidelines could support the legal action.
Legal experts note potential challenges in the case, particularly regarding whether a company breakup is legally permissible as a remedy.
US Department of Justice building exterior
Michael Rapino in black shirt
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