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ARTICLE · 31 JULY 2013

"We Are Never, Ever, Ever Getting Back Together" Without Contest Rules In Place

Venable LLP
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Last week, a radio station in Boston canceled its "Taylor Swift’s Biggest Fan" contest after it came out that a 39-year-old man named Charles was set to win the grand title.

United StatesMedia, Telecoms, IT, Entertainment
Amy Mudge
Amy Mudge
Randal Shaheen
Randal Shaheen

Last week, a radio station in Boston canceled its "Taylor Swift's Biggest Fan" contest after it came out that a 39-year-old man named Charles was set to win the grand title.  The radio station issued a statement clarifying the reasoning for its decision:

"Disappointingly, we have determined that the integrity of the 'Taylor Swift's Biggest Fan' contest has been compromised. In accordance with our contest rules, effective immediately, the contest has been terminated. We apologize to all of our loyal listeners who have participated."

Was the radio station allowed to do this?  Did the Official Rules protect the contest's sponsor from having to award the prize?  The short answer is yes, and that's precisely why having a good set of Official Rules in place is critical before a contest launches.    

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