Sony Pictures Television and CBS are embroiled in a heated distribution feud over the popular game shows 'Wheel of Fortune' and 'Jeopardy!'. According to Bloomberg, Sony has informed CBS that it will be taking over the distribution duties for both shows starting the week of February 10th. However, CBS is pushing back, claiming that Sony has no rights to terminate the distribution agreements and is seeking a temporary restraining order.

The roots of this dispute can be traced back to October, when Sony sued CBS for allegedly not putting in enough effort to grow licensing revenues despite making over $1 billion in profit from the 35-year-old distribution deal. Sony also claims that CBS pocketed more than $3.6 million from other deals made in Australia and New Zealand that did not benefit Sony.

Earlier last year, Sony reportedly attempted to buy out the rights from CBS for a figure "greater than nine figures," according to a source who spoke with Bloomberg at the time. It appears that the negotiations broke down, leading to the current standoff between the two media giants.

CBS has responded to Sony's claims, telling clients to ignore the company's statements and assuring them that CBS remains the distributor for the shows. The network is confident that it has the upper hand in this dispute, citing the existing distribution agreements that do not allow Sony to unilaterally terminate them.

This feud has significant implications for the entertainment industry, particularly in the realm of game shows. 'Wheel of Fortune' and 'Jeopardy!' are two of the most popular and enduring game shows in television history, with a combined run of over 70 years. The outcome of this dispute will likely have a ripple effect on the industry, potentially paving the way for changes in the way game shows are distributed and licensed.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this dispute will be resolved. Will Sony succeed in taking over the distribution rights, or will CBS emerge victorious? One thing is certain – the fate of two beloved game shows hangs in the balance, and the entertainment industry is watching with bated breath.

In a broader context, this dispute highlights the complexities and nuances of distribution agreements in the entertainment industry. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more disputes of this nature arise, particularly as companies jockey for position and control over valuable intellectual properties.