In a significant turn of events, the legal battle involving Spencer Elden and the iconic rock band Nirvana has been reignited. The U.S. Court of Appeals has overturned a previous decision to dismiss Elden’s lawsuit regarding the use of his image on Nirvana’s renowned 1991 album “Nevermind.” The controversial cover, photographed by Kirk Weddle, features a then-four-month-old Elden swimming nude in a pool, a photo for which Elden’s father received $200.
Now 32, Elden asserts that the image falls under the category of child pornography. He initially brought a lawsuit against Nirvana, their record labels, the photographer, and other related parties in 2021. Elden’s complaint highlighted his inability to consent to the photograph’s use and distribution at the time it was taken. Although the case was first dismissed in January 2022 due to Elden’s failure to meet a court deadline, he quickly resubmitted an amended lawsuit.
However, in September 2022, U.S. District Court Judge Fernando M. Olguin once again dismissed the case, citing an expired statute of limitations, and prohibited Elden from filing again, though he was allowed to appeal. The recent decision by the appellate court was based on the premise that each new publication of what might be considered child pornography could represent a fresh instance of personal injury. It’s important to note that the court’s decision didn’t address whether the “Nevermind” cover actually meets the legal definition of child pornography. Elden’s complaint also pointed to more recent reissues of the album, including its 30th-anniversary edition in 2021. Interestingly, Elden has recreated the album cover several times since 1991.
The case has attracted wide attention, with current developments making headlines. A representative for Nirvana expressed determination to combat what they consider a baseless lawsuit, while Elden’s lawyer emphasized the questionable legality of using a baby’s image for global commercial purposes, regardless of its iconic status.
As the case progresses, representatives from Nirvana’s camp have been contacted by Newsound for further comments and insights. Meanwhile, in unrelated news, Olivia Rodrigo has been sharing her thoughts on heartbreak, high heels, and the benefits of therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Nirvana Lawsuit
What is the recent development in Spencer Elden’s lawsuit against Nirvana?
A U.S. Court of Appeals has revived Spencer Elden’s lawsuit against Nirvana. The case, initially dismissed, challenges the use of Elden’s image on the 1991 “Nevermind” album cover, which he claims constitutes child pornography.
Why was Spencer Elden’s case against Nirvana originally dismissed?
The case was initially dismissed in January 2022 because Elden failed to meet a deadline to respond to Nirvana’s dismissal motion. It was dismissed again in September 2022 due to an expired statute of limitations, but Elden was allowed to appeal.
On what grounds did the appeals court reverse the previous dismissal of Elden’s lawsuit?
The appeals court reversed the dismissal partly on the grounds that each republication of what may be considered child pornography could represent a new instance of personal injury. However, they did not determine if the “Nevermind” cover qualifies as child pornography.
Has Spencer Elden recreated the “Nevermind” album cover since the original photo was taken?
Yes, Spencer Elden has recreated the “Nevermind” album cover multiple times since the original photo was taken in 1991.
More about Nirvana Lawsuit
- Nirvana’s Legal Battle
- Spencer Elden’s Lawsuit Details
- Nevermind Album Controversy
- Album Cover Legal Issues
4 comments
Seriously? this has been dragging on forever. Elden even recreated the cover himself, what’s the big deal now?
Its interesting to see how this unfolds, legaly speaking. the argument about “new personal injury” for each republication is a curious one…
gotta say, the nevermind cover was a masterpiece, hope this doesn’t change how we see classic album art…
wow, cant believe this case is back. thought it was done for! nirvana’s cover was iconic, not sure how i feel about this…