The satirical news outlet The Onion has launched an audacious plan to take control of the Infowars platforms belonging to conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, whose company is currently facing liquidation over more than $1 billion in defamation judgments owed to the relatives of Sandy Hook shooting victims. In a proposal filed Monday with a Texas state judge, The Onion seeks an exclusive temporary license for the intellectual property of Infowars’ parent company, Free Speech Systems. This would enable The Onion to create its own content on the Infowars website and social media accounts.
Ben Collins, The Onion’s CEO, expressed optimism that the deal could be finalized by April 30, contingent on the approval of Judge Maya Guerra Gamble in Austin. Collins revealed that The Onion has already begun hiring personnel to oversee the reimagined Infowars parody site, including Tim Heidecker, a well-known figure from the comedy duo Tim and Eric.
“Our intent is to build this into a larger comedy network,” Collins stated during a phone interview. He emphasized that profits from the new initiative would benefit the Sandy Hook families, highlighting a commitment to transform the controversial legacy of Jones' platform into something positive.
The proposal arises from the fallout of the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting, which claimed the lives of 20 children and six educators. Jones had infamously described the tragic event as a hoax, leading to extensive legal battles with victims’ families who have since accused him of defamation and emotional distress.
Jones has publicly vowed to contest the licensing proposal in court but acknowledged that he and his team may be required to vacate their current studio at the end of the month. He has plans to establish a new studio and continue broadcasting under the same title, the 'Alex Jones Show', across various media channels despite the tumultuous situation.
The proposed licensing agreement would initially span six months, with options to renew under conditions set by a court-appointed receiver managing the sale of Infowars assets. The agreement stipulates that The Onion would pay $81,000 monthly to cover rent, utilities, and other expenses associated with the Infowars studio.
During earlier trials concerning the defamation claims, victims’ families revealed the intense harassment they faced due to Jones’ conspiracy theories. A jury in Connecticut previously awarded these families over $1.4 billion in damages, while a separate case in Texas resulted in nearly $50 million in damages awarded to the parents of a Sandy Hook victim.
In light of his financial troubles, including a bankruptcy filing in late 2022, Jones is appealing the rulings against him while simultaneously preparing to broadcast independently if The Onion’s plan goes through. His significant following and substantial merchandise sales remain a focal point despite these ongoing legal battles. An attorney representing the Sandy Hook families has voiced support for The Onion’s initiative, indicating hopes for a beneficial outcome for those impacted by Jones’ past rhetoric.
Ben Collins, The Onion’s CEO, expressed optimism that the deal could be finalized by April 30, contingent on the approval of Judge Maya Guerra Gamble in Austin. Collins revealed that The Onion has already begun hiring personnel to oversee the reimagined Infowars parody site, including Tim Heidecker, a well-known figure from the comedy duo Tim and Eric.
“Our intent is to build this into a larger comedy network,” Collins stated during a phone interview. He emphasized that profits from the new initiative would benefit the Sandy Hook families, highlighting a commitment to transform the controversial legacy of Jones' platform into something positive.
The proposal arises from the fallout of the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting, which claimed the lives of 20 children and six educators. Jones had infamously described the tragic event as a hoax, leading to extensive legal battles with victims’ families who have since accused him of defamation and emotional distress.
Jones has publicly vowed to contest the licensing proposal in court but acknowledged that he and his team may be required to vacate their current studio at the end of the month. He has plans to establish a new studio and continue broadcasting under the same title, the 'Alex Jones Show', across various media channels despite the tumultuous situation.
The proposed licensing agreement would initially span six months, with options to renew under conditions set by a court-appointed receiver managing the sale of Infowars assets. The agreement stipulates that The Onion would pay $81,000 monthly to cover rent, utilities, and other expenses associated with the Infowars studio.
During earlier trials concerning the defamation claims, victims’ families revealed the intense harassment they faced due to Jones’ conspiracy theories. A jury in Connecticut previously awarded these families over $1.4 billion in damages, while a separate case in Texas resulted in nearly $50 million in damages awarded to the parents of a Sandy Hook victim.
In light of his financial troubles, including a bankruptcy filing in late 2022, Jones is appealing the rulings against him while simultaneously preparing to broadcast independently if The Onion’s plan goes through. His significant following and substantial merchandise sales remain a focal point despite these ongoing legal battles. An attorney representing the Sandy Hook families has voiced support for The Onion’s initiative, indicating hopes for a beneficial outcome for those impacted by Jones’ past rhetoric.
