Settlement in Elly Mae Clampett Barbie Doll Suit
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.