Cherie Gil doesn’t want musical to use famous “Copycat” line

Actress Cherie Gil has filed copyright claims over her famous line in the movie Bituing Walang Ningning, requesting the organizers to drop the line from the stage musical version of the 1980s film.

According to a report from the entertainment website Pep.ph, Gil’s lawyer, Lorna Kapunan, has sent a cease and desist letter to Viva Films and the management of the Newport Performing Arts Theater, where the Bituing Walang Ningning musical is being staged.

The actress claimed that the iconic line she delivered in the movie – “You’re nothing but a second-rate, trying hard copycat!” – is her intellectual property.

Gil played the role of the villainess Lavinia Arguelles in the blockbuster movie Bituing Walang Ningning opposite Sharon Cuneta. The musical version has theater veteran Cris Villonco as the new Lavinia, who is now tasked to deliver the “copycat” line everyone knows by heart.

Meanwhile, according to Viva Films legal counsel Heather Annang there is no basis for the actress’ claims. Emmanuel Borlaza, the director of the Bituing Walang Ningning movie, also does not agree with Gil. Also in an interview with Pep.ph, Emmanuel Borlaza maintained that he came up with the line, adding that he is willing to testify for Viva Films. He added that he was surprised by Gil’s latest move.Bituing Walang Ningning runs until July 18 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.