Dictator Manuel Noriega’s Absurd Lawsuit Against Call of Duty Creator is Dismissed

Ruling Comes One Week Before Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare is Released

LOS ANGELES — Judge William H. Fahey of the Los Angeles Superior Court ruled in favor of Activision Blizzard, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) with respect to its motion to strike former dictator and convicted murderer Manuel Noriega’s frivolous lawsuit against the creators of the popular Call of Duty^® franchise. The ruling marked a significant victory for the genre of historical fiction in all types of expressive works of art, including videogames, movies, television and books. Rudy Giuliani, former New York City Mayor and named partner of Bracewell & Giuliani LLP, argued along with co-counsel Kelly Klaus of Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP.

"This ruling is an important victory and we thank the court for protecting free speech," said Rudy Giuliani. "This was an absurd lawsuit from the very beginning and we’re gratified that in the end, a notorious criminal didn’t win. This is not just a win for the makers of Call of Duty, but is a victory for works of art across the entertainment and publishing industries throughout the world."

"Today's ruling is a victory for the 40 million dedicated members of our Call of Duty community and global audiences who enjoy historical fiction across all works of art," said Bobby Kotick, CEO of Activision Blizzard. "I want to thank Mayor Giuliani, who has dedicated his life to the protection of citizens against terrorists like Manuel Noriega and today for defending free speech."

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