Disney Faces Lawsuit for Using CGI to Revive Deceased Star Wars Actor

Eight years after the release of Rogue One, Disney is facing a lawsuit regarding the unauthorized use of Peter Cushing’s likeness in the Star Wars spinoff.

In the film, Cushing’s image is utilized to reprise his role as Grand Moff Tarkin, a character he originally portrayed in the 1977 sci-fi classic.

Cushing passed away in 1994, and more than two decades later, his likeness was brought back to life in Rogue One through advanced special effects.

The lawsuit has been filed by Tyburn Film Productions, a production company based in London, alleging that the use of Cushing’s image infringes on a contract established with the actor prior to his death.

Peter Cushing as Grand Moff Tarkin in Rogue One — Disney

Tyburn Film Productions claims that the contract granted them “a veto” over any recreation of his image using special effects. According to their lawyers, this agreement was originally formulated for a planned appearance in a TV movie that ultimately was never produced.

The company further argues that Lunak Heavy Industries and Lucasfilm benefitted from “unjust enrichment” by including Cushing’s likeness in the film without obtaining necessary permissions.

In response, Lunak Heavy Industries and Lucasfilm contend that they did not believe they needed permission, citing Cushing’s original contract for the 1977 movie as the basis for their rights to his image from Star Wars.

On September 9, 2024, it was determined that the case would proceed to trial. Deputy High Court judge Tom Mitcheson KC stated that the case was not “unarguable” and emphasized the necessity for a “full factual inquiry.”

In December 2023, Lunak Heavy Industries and Lucasfilm sought to have the case dismissed, but their request was declined by a judge. The trial is set to occur at an undetermined date.

For more information, explore the upcoming Star Wars movies and TV shows, as well as updates on the Mandalorian and Grogu movie, alongside the Lando movie.