A prolonged dispute regarding the legal rights surrounding the legacy of the Ramones, ignited further by the cancellation of a Pete Davidson Netflix biopic about the band’s late frontman, has reached a conclusion.
However, tensions may still rise between the families of the band members, all of whom have since passed away. Former executives are expressing concerns about facing enormous legal fees and judgments amounting to millions.
Linda Cummings-Ramone, the widow of guitarist Johnny Ramone, has received the rest of her company, Ramones Productions, from Mickey Lee, brother of Joey Ramone, in a deal finalized this past Wednesday.
This agreement grants Cummings-Ramone, who was previously Joey’s girlfriend and later married Johnny, “full control” of the estate, as stated in court documents. This settlement comes while Lee faces a lengthy legal struggle and potential hefty damages.
In addition, the settlement allows Lee to keep the copyright and other intellectual properties tied to his brother’s music, enabling him to promote his brother’s legacy without outside interference, according to longtime Ramones manager Dave Frye.
But the much-anticipated film based on Lee’s memoir appears to be on indefinite hold following the legal tumult, leaving Frey in a difficult position.
Frey is currently facing a $15 million lawsuit that alleges he violated his financial obligations to RPI by canceling the Netflix project.
He maintains that the film project was “secured to STX Films only by Mickey’s lawyers, not by me,” and that he has informed the producers about the settlement, but they are still waiting to find out if their options remain viable. The film was intended to be inspired by Lee’s memoir, “I Slept with Joey Ramone.”
“It would have really benefited everyone, especially the Ramones,” Lee shared. “Now, we can focus on sharing what people are experiencing and doing more work in Joey’s name.”
Frey, who previously served as RPI’s director, was accused in 2023 of breaching the foundation’s agreement by pushing the film project without Cummings-Ramone’s complete permission. Lee has asserted that the film isn’t a traditional Ramones biopic but rather a memoir detailing his bond with his brother.
In the subsequent year, an arbitrator determined that Frey had engaged in “disruptive and negative conduct” related to his board role concerning the film initiative, resulting in his removal in 2024.
A former manager emphasized that the contract clearly states that “the film is based solely on Mickey Lee’s personal memoirs and his and his brother’s personal rights.” Thus, he said, “this project cannot be a ‘Ramones movie.'”
Lee has explained that the story isn’t just about the iconic singer, who struggled with severe OCD prior to his passing in 2000, but rather about growing up with someone who overcame adversity and inspired countless others.
The film project, which was originally announced in April 2021, now seems to be on pause indefinitely. As for Cummings-Ramone and Frey, both sides have until the end of the month to submit relevant “evidence” for the ongoing litigation.
Frey mentioned that an appeal is currently in process and reflected on the potential outcome: “I could end up broke, which is a big thing. That’s when you really see the issues.” He argues that a ruling in Cummings-Ramone’s favor could create troubling precedents for artists’ intellectual property rights moving forward.
“Anything I would do solo would require their approval, which often complicates things,” he pointed out, while referencing past situations involving other musicians.
Cummings-Ramone communicated her disappointment over the ongoing disputes, noting in an email, “While I am disheartened, I am not shocked that Mr. Frey would choose to exacerbate the situation by speaking to the Post.”
“We remain in litigation, and we will address any misrepresentations and ongoing damage through that process.”
Lee also echoed that the conflict is far from over, citing an unsettling incident where Joey Ramone’s official social media profile was replaced by a “disturbing” new account just before the settlement. “I still have to keep an eye on things. There are conflicts that could arise,” he remarked, adding, “I’m not sure if I can truly feel free yet.”
