Elvis Impersonators All Over The World Might Be Forced Out Of Business!
By Jonathon Bates
There are an estimated 30,000 Elvis impersonators performing on stage. And that's in America alone. There's no telling how many more Elvis impersonators walk the face of the earth.
However, that could all change. At least for the more popular ones, or the ones earning their living from it. This is due to billionaire Robert Sillerman. Robert FX Sillerman bought an 85% stake in Elvis Presley Enterprises. Elvis Presley Enterprises was previously run by Elvis Presley's family. Billionaire Robert Sillerman paid a walloping $114 million price for Elvis Presley Enterprises.
Though the Presleys previously chose not to bicker about Elvis impersonators, this could all change in the future. Elvis impersonators could be forced to give up what they're doing if this New York billionaire chooses to press the subject legally. The New York businessman has complete rights to Elvis' name and likeness. Robert Sillerman also owns the television show American Idol.
Just how serious is Robert Sillerman at pressing this issue and forcing Elvis impersonators out of business?
It's hard to say at this point in time. However, speaking to the New York Times, Sillerman reported that he is planning to open an Elvis exhibit and Elvis themed cabaret show in Las Vegas. He stated that if he was planning on opening a show based on Elvis impersonators, then "obviously it wouldn't make sense to have unauthorized Elvis impersonators."
This could be the end of the road for Elvis impersonators all-around America. I'm just trying to visualize what would become of Elvis impersonators if this issue is pressed legally and Mr. Sillerman gets his way in court.
Let's imagine a judge ordering all Elvis unauthorized Elvis impersonators to "Cease and Desist" their order of business.
Some would stop, many would continue. Can you imagine law-enforcement officials, perhaps SWAT teams, breaking in taverns and theaters, arresting Elvis impersonators on the spot. Perhaps they would arrest and take away the audience and fans alike.
I'm trying to visualize an Elvis impersonator being handcuffed and taken away in the paddy wagon. His dyed black year and shiny rhinestoned jump suit would reflect off of the flashing blue lights. Surely the Elvis would need his sunglasses. But seriously, would there be secret underground Elvis shows? I'm sure there would be.
On the other hand, try and visualize an Elvis impersonator who is authorized by Robert Sillerman. As the police come to take him away, perhaps he would present a card issued to him, stamped with the seal of approval, as an "authorized Elvis impersonator."
It's amazing what money can buy, isn't it?
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