Belushi Brothers’ Fame Hampers Euro Bar’s Trademark

A European chain of bars and diners can’t register the name Belushi’s as a trademark in the U.S. because of the fame of American actors Jim and the late John Belushi, an administrative board ruled (In re Beds & Bars Ltd., TTAB, 85597669, 5/5/17).

The Trademark Trial and Appeal Board ruled May 5 that the Belushi brothers’ fame is evidence that Belushi is primarily known as a surname in the U.S.—although an uncommon one—and, so, not eligible for full trademark protection. U.S. consumers aren’t likely to recognize the name as a distinctive trademark for drinking and dining establishments, ...