In a limited capacity, Mel B might still be utilized by The Seven Network for The X Factor in 2013, following its successful court ruling that bars her from participating in a program on the Nine Network.
The NSW Supreme Court Justice David Hammerschlag determined on Thursday that Seven held an exclusive contract with Melanie Brown, which restricts her participation in any other Australian television network until January 31, 2014.
Because she was not involved in The X Factor for 2013, Nine had enlisted Mel B for its reality show Australia’s Got Talent (AGT), mistakenly assuming she was available.
Now, Nine must look for a substitute judge for its AGT panel, while Seven has yet to disclose Mel B’s potential involvement in The X Factor.
In the course of the legal proceedings, Seven indicated its readiness to involve Mel B in a limited capacity on The X Factor this year.
However, it remains unclear whether Seven plans to reopen discussions with the former Spice Girl.
“The Seven Network appreciates the court’s decision that reinforces its agreement with Mel B and prevents her from working for a competing network in violation of that contract in 2013,” stated a spokeswoman for Seven.
According to an insider at Seven, the court case was fundamentally about principle.
“It’s crucial to ensure that contracts are honored,” the insider mentioned.
“Letting her go would imply that the contract holds no value.
“This is fundamentally a matter of principle.”
Nine has expressed its intention to uphold the court’s decision and commence the search for a new judge for the AGT panel.
“We respect the ruling and are moving forward with our business,” a spokeswoman for Nine remarked.
The judging panel for this year’s AGT includes UK comedian Dawn French, Nigerian-born Australian singer-songwriter and dancer Timomatic, and Sydney radio figure Kyle Sandilands.
