The Vow, Chris Harrison’s new dating show, is facing drama before it even premieres.
Variety reported that Warner Bros. Television has sent cease-and-desist correspondence to Fox Nation and Lionsgate. The studio accused the upcoming series of improperly using intellectual property associated with The Bachelor franchise.
In a letter titled, “Cease and Desist regarding The Vow – Unauthorized Use of THE BACHELOR Intellectual Property,” Warner Bros. argued that promotional materials for The Vow capitalize on the “intellectual property and goodwill” associated with The Bachelor.
Details of the C&D
The issue is IP, not Chris Harrison’s role with the production. The issue, according to the letter, is how Fox and Lionsgate have marketed the series. “To be clear, though, we have no objection to Fox and Lionsgate releasing a dating show hosted by Chris Harrison in and of itself.”
“But thus far, Fox and Lionsgate have promoted the Series entirely on the back of the Franchise, not on its own merits.”
Warner Bros. reportedly included screenshots from The Vow’s trailer alongside promotional images from previous seasons of The Bachelor to illustrate what it considers unauthorized similarities.
The War of Roses
Warner Bros. called out the red roses featured in The Vow’s teaser, arguing that they are “one of the central and instantly recognizable symbols” of The Bachelor franchise.
The studio also took issue with a thumbnail showing what it claims appears to be a mansion designed to evoke the iconic “Bachelor Mansion.”
Fox Nation argued that Warner Bros. does not own rights to a “falling roses motif” or to the words “The Bachelor” when they are used colloquially to describe a single man.
“We trust Warner Bros. will do the same and drop its pursuit of these meritless claims,” the response stated.
What to expect from The Vow
The Vow is scheduled to premiere on Nov. 11, with six episodes rolling out weekly.
The series follows eligible bachelor Jace Cates as he dates 10 women while looking for a relationship built around shared values, faith, communication, and long-term goals.
According to the official description, the show aims to move away from “fleeting connections and social media attention” and instead focus on commitment and building a life together.
