Detroit Lions wide receiver Kenny Golladay was a no-show for a scheduled virtual deposition as part of a lawsuit that had been brought by his former agent against his current agent.
The lawsuit alleged that Golladay participated in an autograph signing session just days before splitting from his former agent for an unaffiliated marketing firm, which broke an exclusive-rights contract.
Golladay was originally served with a subpoena in early November.
Jason Bernstein, Golladay’s former agent, filed suit against Todd France, Golladay’s current agent, and alleged that they “tortiously interfered” with the wide receiver’s contracts. This “caused Golladay to terminate those contracts.” Bernstein, whom Golladay signed with after playing collegiately at Northern Illinois, is seeking damages of $1,782,942.81.
Despite having an exclusive endorsement and appearance contract with Clarity Sports (Bernstein’s organization), Golladay participated in an autograph signing for Pennsylvania-based companies Redland Sports and MVP Authentics and New Jersey-based company Boone Enterprises in suburban Chicago. The companies removed Facebook advertising posts about the event, though they continued with the signings.
Later, Bernstein was fired by Golladay. Bernstein alleges in his suit that the memorabilia companies have a close relationship with CAA, which is current Golladay agent Todd France’s company.
The virtual deposition was scheduled for Thursday, though Golladay never appeared on the call following over an hour-long wait. The plaintiff’s attorneys have since tried to follow up with Golladay regarding rescheduling but to no avail.
So far, Golladay has not responded to requests for comment.
– – Quotes via Tony Paul of The Detroit News Link – –
