‘Idol’ Sues Over Stripper Contest

“American Idol” is suing an Austin, Texas, strip joint for its weekly “Stripper Idol” contest.

The Palazio Men’s Club uses a logo with a “color scheme, design and font” similar to the TV show’s, and waitresses wear T-shirts emblazoned with the logo, according to the lawsuit.

Palazio managers initially thought the trademark infringement lawsuit was a joke and plan to continue the contest, where women have 60 seconds to dance topless, then are ranked by audience applause to win $500.

“Idol” production company FreemantleMedia can’t lay claim to the word “idol,” said “Kinky” Kelly Jones, a club manager and the show’s emcee.