Nick Cannon is at the center of a legal battle as Viacom accuses Zeus Network of blatantly copying Wild ’N Out for its new show, Bad vs. Wild.
The lawsuit alleges that Zeus intentionally lifted key elements of Viacom’s hit series, violating copyright laws to create a near-identical competitor.
“Zeus intentionally copied Wild ’N Out when developing Bad vs. Wild, fully aware it was infringing on Viacom’s intellectual property,” said Viacom attorney George W. Kroup. He argued that Zeus’s partnership with Cannon—who hosted Wild ’N Out for years—only strengthens the case that the network sought to profit off an established brand without creating original content.
Viacom claims Bad vs. Wild is more than an imitation—it’s a full-scale reproduction. The lawsuit outlines the similarities, including set design, format, live audience participation, celebrity guest appearances, DJ-led scoring, and championship prizes. These features, Viacom insists, are unmistakable trademarks of Wild ’N Out.
Adding to the dispute is Cannon’s role in the competing show. Viacom alleges that hosting Bad vs. Wild violates his contract, which bars him from working on projects that compete with or mimic Wild ’N Out. The lawsuit argues that Zeus deliberately interfered with Cannon’s contractual obligations, encouraging him to breach the agreement.
Viacom further accuses Zeus of marketing Bad vs. Wild as a high-energy version of Wild ’N Out, allegedly promoting it as “Wild ’N Out on steroids.” The lawsuit also claims the show tarnishes the reputation of its predecessor by including offensive content, racial and gender stereotypes, and explicit imagery—elements Viacom says stray from the original’s “good-natured humor.”
“The damage is worsened by the negative publicity Zeus has generated,” Kroup said, referencing the controversial “Lightskin vs. Darkskin” episode, which the lawsuit describes as promoting colorist and sizeist stereotypes.
Beyond Nick Cannon, the lawsuit names several former Wild ’N Out cast and crew members who now work on Bad vs. Wild. Viacom argues their involvement confuses audiences, making it appear as though the two productions are officially connected.
The lawsuit demands a permanent injunction to halt Bad vs. Wild’s production and distribution, as well as financial damages. Viacom is also seeking treble damages for willful copyright infringement, a full surrender of profits, and reimbursement for legal fees.
Zeus Network has not publicly responded to the allegations.
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