LOS ANGELES — Playboy says the term “Playmates” shouldn’t be confused with hookers and is going to court to make its case.
TMZ reported that the entertainment giant has fired off a lawsuit against Canadian escort service PleasurePlaymates.com, claiming that the term “Playmates” is reserved for girls with a wholesome appeal.
Court papers say PleasurePlaymates is tarnishing the Playboy-branded term because escort services are typically used for “illicit activity.”
The site’s description reads, “Our Play Mates are discreet, sexy and have fun loving personalities. They are very open-minded and a lot of fun. Whether it's a casual, elegant, themed or sexy & hot encounter our Play Mates show up dressed to impress to fit any occasion or however you desire.”
Playboy says its Playmates are “classy and sophisticated” and wants the website to turn over the domain name.
In a response to the report, Playboy told XBIZ, "While we will not comment on this specific action, Playboy actively enforces rights to protect its valuable brands, including Playmate."