Producers and all behind the hit series "Big Bang Theory" are to face a lawsuit filed by heir of Edith Newlin due to the copyright claim of the poem 'Soft Kitty' that was used on at least 8 episodes of the show since March 2008.
According to the report from USA Today, the song 'Soft Kitty' used by Sheldon (Jim Parsons) to calm down or sleep every time that he is anxious turned out to be not an original composition of the writers behind "Big Bang Theory". Heirs of a New Hampshire teacher, Edith Newlin, claims that the song/poem about a "soft kitty" was publish by their mother in 1937.
The lawsuit states that the lyrics also have been used in merchandising, including being displayed in their entirely on T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, pajamas, mouse pads, mobile phone covers, wallets, air fresheners, refrigerator magnets, singing plush toys and other products.
"The Soft Kitty Lyrics are among the best-known and most popular aspects of 'The Big Bang Theory,'" the lawsuit says. "They have become a signature and emblematic feature of the show and a central part of the show's promotion."
The heirs claim that producers of "Big Bang Theory" never gave credit to their mother for the song and make it seem that one of the writer has written the song.
Associated Press reported that Warner Bros. Entertainment and the show's other producers has asked the permission to use to song from its publisher Willis Music Co., a Florence, Kentucky-based company. According to the lawsuit, Willis Music Co. agreed for the usage of the song in the series without seeking the permission from Newlin's heirs even though the book makes clear on its acknowledgement page and where the lyrics appear that Newlin was the author of and owned the copyright to the lyrics.
Edith Newlin passed away in 2004. She was a nursery school teacher in Alstead, New Hampshire, for about 35 years. Her daughters still live in the small town.
