Since launching their podcast Reasonably Shady in 2021, Real Housewives of Potomac stars Gizelle Bryant and Robyn Dixon have faced more than the usual challenges of a new business venture. They have found themselves entangled in a legal battle with none other than Eminem—or more specifically, his manager, Paul Rosenberg—over the use of the word “shady” in their podcast title. Eminem, famously known as Slim Shady, owns the trademark for “Shady,” meaning any use of the word in branding must be cleared by him.
The ongoing dispute began when the ladies started to trademark Reasonably Shady for their marketing and future product releases. To their surprise, Eminem’s team opposed the trademark, claiming it infringed on his established brand. Throughout the summer, Gizelle and Robyn pushed for Eminem to personally sit for a deposition, but he instead sent his manager, stating that Rosenberg had a better understanding of the marketing and trademark details.
The case has been brought before the United States Patent and Trademark Office Board, and the board agreed to allow Rosenberg’s deposition instead of Eminem’s. However, the reality stars are not backing down, continuing their fight to get Eminem himself involved. According to InTouch Weekly, Gizelle and Robyn argue that Eminem’s testimony is crucial for determining key issues, such as ownership and potential consumer confusion regarding the Reasonably Shady name. They feel their defense would be incomplete without hearing from Eminem directly, stating, “Mr. Mathers’ deposition is critical.”
Despite the ongoing legal hurdles, Reasonably Shady has seen success since its launch, amassing a strong following. The Green-Eyed Bandits, as they are known on The Real Housewives of Potomac, are determined to resolve the trademark battle but have hit roadblocks in getting Eminem to personally engage in the case. Their attempt to bring him in for a deposition has been denied once, but they are making another push to get him involved.
As the case continues, Gizelle and Robyn remain committed to defending their brand, but for now, it seems the Real Slim Shady is staying out of the courtroom.