Attorney General James Uthmeier Secures Victory for Floridians Against Live Nation-Ticketmaster Monopoly

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.-Attorney General James Uthmeier secured a verdict against Live Nation Entertainment, Inc., and its wholly-owned subsidiary Ticketmaster LLC in a New York federal court. Following a four-day deliberation, the jury ruled that Live Nation operated an illegal monopoly over the live entertainment industry. This marks a significant step in lowering ticket prices for consumers.

"Live Nation merged with Ticketmaster and monopolized the ticket industry, forcing venues into restrictive contracts and raising ticket prices-all while mocking Florida consumers," said Attorney General James Uthmeier. "Our victory in court will allow the free market to determine how much you pay for tickets, rather than a mega corporation that used the threat of financial ruin against venues to stifle competition. It's a big win for Florida consumers!"

The complaint accused Live Nation of breaking antitrust laws by illegally dominating the live entertainment industry. The company, which acquired Ticketmaster in 2010, calls itself the "largest live entertainment company in the world." It owns, manages, and contracts with hundreds of venues across the United States. The lawsuit alleged that the company wielded its power to forcefully control concert promotion, artist management, venue operations, and ticketing services to block out any potential competitors. These anti-competitive practices drove limited consumer choice and drove up ticket prices through excessive hidden fees.

The jury ruled that consumers were overcharged by an estimated $1.72 per ticket, which the company could be ordered to pay back, in addition to potential further penalties.

The complaint was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.

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