We reported a while ago that the monkey selfie case could come to an end. And finally, this happened. After two years of court battle, David Slater, PETA and Slater’s co-defendant Blurb have reached a settlement. Slater has agreed to donate 25% of any future revenue from the famous selfies to charities that protect the habitats of crested macaques.
PETA and Slater reached the settlement before the federal appeals court could rule who owns the photos. On Monday, PETA’s lawyers asked the court to dismiss the case. According to Engadget, Slater and PETA stated that the case raised “cutting-edge issues” about animal rights and that they agree on the idea of expanding animal rights.
So, after two years, one of the most bizarre copyright-related cases is over. It has raised many questions and issues and made us rethink the notion of copyright ownership. Sadly, it has caused lots of stress and loss for the photographer, but I’m glad he can finally leave this behind. [via Engadget, FOX]
