Since filing for bankruptcy earlier this year, The Weinstein Co. has been hit with plenty of claims from actors, writers, and producers who say they're owed money in unpaid royalties and then some. Among them are the parents of Trayvon Martin, who say they're owed $150,000 from the company after they optioned the film and television rights to their book Rest in Power: The Enduring Life of Trayvon Martin, The Blast reports.
Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin say they're owed thousands as executive producers of the television series, adding that six episodes have already been filmed but have yet to air. Jay-Z also served as executive producer of the project. Filed court documents state Fulton and Martin were to receive $150,000 once the episodes were filmed, as well as additional compensation once it aired. In bankruptcy documents, however, TWC claimed they owed $0 to that particular deal. The company also has movie rights to the book, which chronicles the aftermath of their son's death in 2012.
Trayvon Martin was shot and killed by George Zimmerman while walking home from the convenience store, and Zimmerman was later acquitted of all charges. Many point to the verdict as the tipping point for the creating of the Black Lives Matter movement, later mobilizing in spaces online and in real life.
Stars including Julia Roberts, Brad Pitt, Jay Z, and Eminem have all filed claims against the company for unpaid royalties. The fall of TWC came after reports of studio head Harvey Weinstein's rampant sexual misconduct came to public attention late last year.
