John Melendez, often referred to as “Stuttering John,” is taking legal action against two podcasters who allegedly recorded his voice without permission and used his name to gain attention and profits.
The 59-year-old Melendez claims that comedians Carl Heberger and Schli Eger, known from the podcast “Who are these podcasts?” have unlawfully recorded his private conversations. They reportedly mocked him during shows, even at events where he was featured prominently.
In a lawsuit filed in Manhattan, Melendez highlighted his established reputation as a comedian and broadcaster, marked by his unique voice that he has developed over the years.
Melendez initially rose to fame on “The Howard Stern Show,” where he was known for asking provocative questions to celebrities and navigating difficult situations.
He argues that his name and likeness carry significant recognition and goodwill among audiences, while Heberger and Eger remain less known.
Egar, who worked with Stern until 2024, had a brief collaboration with Melendez on the show.
Central to the complaint is an event called “Dabblecon 2” that took place in Rochester last August.
Heberger and Egar are accused of ridiculing a private conversation between Melendez and comedian Kate Meaney.
The pair are said to have used segments of these recordings in their podcasts, incorporating Melendez’s images and personal materials without his consent.
In a rather bizarre twist, they allegedly trespassed onto his property in Los Angeles, rummaged through his trash, took cushions from an old sofa, and exhibited them as part of a comedic display in Rochester. Melendez claims they aimed to mock him and appeal to fans through a strange, personal connection.
Heberger dismissed the lawsuit, calling it frivolous and suggesting that Melendez is trying to profit from his situation.
Egar echoed this sentiment, describing the legal action as a pathetic attempt to capitalize on Melendez’s notoriety.
This isn’t Melendez’s first legal attempt regarding his name and voice. Previously, in 2020, he sued SiriusXM, alleging they used his identity to promote Stern’s show even after he departed 15 years prior, but he ultimately lost that case.
Heberger added that Melendez has made poor decisions in the past, implying a pattern of behavior.
Melendez was a part of “The Howard Stern Show” from 1988 to 2004 and later became the announcer for “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” holding various roles until 2014.
In 2018, he started “The Stuttering John Podcast,” which gained attention for his prank calls, including one to President Trump. The podcast concluded in December.
Since then, he has continued performing stand-up and creating cameo videos.
As of now, Melendez’s attorney has not responded to requests for comments.
