Hasta La Creative!

Devo is suing McDonald’s over New Wave Nigel, an American Idol-branded Happy Meal toy who wears Devo’s signature stupid-looking hat. (Here’s an awesome outdoorsy pic of Nigel.) The hat, which is apparently called an “energy dome,” was designed, copyrighted and trademarked by Devo bassist Gerald Casale. According to Casale, “They didn’t ask us anything. Plus, we don’t like McDonald’s, and we don’t like American Idol, so we’re doubly offended.” Further complicating the matter, New Wave Nigel also sports an orange jumpsuit, safety glasses and plays a hilarious “Devo-esque” song. The other characters in the lineup include Disco Dave, Punky Pete, Country Clay, Rockin’ Riley, Hippie Harmony, Soulful Selma and Lil’ Hip Hop. I think Rockin’ Riley bears a remarkable resemblance to Pete Wentz, and Fallout Boy totally needs to get in on this lawsuit. Time to whip it to cartoon characters infringing on copyright! Read more at Adland and Consumerist.

—Posted by Rebecca Cullers