Business & policy

KC Green settles with Artisan over ‘this is fine’ meme use

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At a glance:

  • KC Green resolves dispute with Artisan over unauthorized use of his “This is fine” meme.
  • Artisan removes ads featuring the meme in New York and San Francisco and drops the AI assistant Ava promotion.
  • Settlement includes takedown of the ads and withdrawal of Green’s public criticism.

Initial backlash

Green posted on social media that his art had been “stolen like AI steals,” urging fans to vandalize the ads. He told TechCrunch he was frustrated about having to “try my hand at the American court system” instead of putting that time into his comics. The post sparked a wave of online criticism toward Artisan.

Artisan’s response

Artisan issued a statement expressing respect for Green and his work. CEO Jaspar Carmichael‑Jack said the company had reached an agreement and would remove the ads. The response emphasized a desire to move forward without further public conflict.

Settlement terms

The settlement was reached quickly, with Artisan taking down the New York and San Francisco ads. Green confirmed the settlement and removed his initial post, indicating a mutual agreement. The deal highlighted the speed of resolution and the parties’ willingness to avoid prolonged litigation.

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FAQ

What triggered the dispute between KC Green and Artisan?
Green discovered that Artisan had used his iconic “This is fine” comic in promotional ads for its AI assistant Ava. This prompted him to label the usage a theft and to urge his followers to vandalize the ads. He also expressed frustration about navigating the American court system rather than focusing on his comics.
How did KC Green initially react publicly?
He posted on social media that his art had been “stolen like AI steals,” calling for public defacement of the ads. He further told TechCrunch that the legal process was an unwanted distraction from his creative work. The message sparked a wave of online criticism toward Artisan.
What were the terms of the settlement?
Artisan agreed to take down the ads in New York and San Francisco and remove all references to Ava from its marketing. Green confirmed the agreement and deleted his original social media post. The deal was reached quickly, ending the public dispute.

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