Settlement in Elly Mae Clampett Barbie Doll Suit

December 30, 2011 by

The actress who played Elly May Clampett on the “The Beverly Hillbillies,” toymaker Mattel Inc. and CBS Consumer Products Inc. have settled a lawsuit that claimed the companies didn’t get the actress’ approval to use her name and likeness for a Barbie doll.

Douglas played the critter-loving tomboy for nine seasons of the CBS television comedy about a backwoods family that strikes oil and moves to Beverly Hills.

A one-sentence order Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Baton Rouge said only that a settlement had been reached. Details of court settlements typically are kept private. However, Douglas’ lawsuit sought compensation of at least $75,000.

In earlier filings, CBS and Mattel said they didn’t need her approval because the network held exclusive rights to the character.