How can they do this?

[Hamad A]

Possibly, since in this case it isn't a parody.

 

[ComedyLiker23]

Does the name have to changed to be a parody?

 

[modnar]

Companies also take into account if the thing they're parodying is defacing the original property to the point that will ruin their business. If they are, they will sue. If not, then it's usually okay.

Also, if they're profiting off of someone else's franchise, that will bring up a lawsuit as well.

But luckily, shows like the ones mentioned in the first post have lawyers that look over everything before going into production to ensure that they'll be lawsuit free.

 

[ska sweetie]

To me, there's a difference between parodying and referencing. if iCarly were to simply mention YouTube, that would just be a reference. In that case, I don't believe there's anything wrong.

 

[mr mcmahon rules]

Lawyers would call it advertising for youtube and sue Nick to high heavens.

 

[skip d]

Lawyers for who? YouTube? I doubt they'd mind.

 

[Dollar Bill]

It's technically copyright infringement, however.

 

[Hatz9000]

See the FCC has this thing where you can't mention popular or things you have to buy or are copyrighted of childrens's tv that's why Drake and Josh drink Mocca cola instead of the real thing.