Complaint alleges false factual accusations, misleading online republication, and unauthorized use of company branding by former independent contractors

Characters for Hire, LLC (“CFH”), a nationwide live event entertainment company, announced today that Nick Sarelli filed a lawsuit in Connecticut Superior Court on December 5, 2025, Case No. FBT-CV25-5059385-S, against several former independent contractors.

The complaint asserts claims arising from what the plaintiffs allege was a sustained online campaign of false factual accusations and misuse of the company’s brand.

According to the complaint, the defendants published and republished statements accusing CFH of being a “scam,” engaging in nonpayment and fraud, and otherwise operating unlawfully. The plaintiffs allege those statements were false, were presented as factual assertions rather than protected opinion, and were intended to harm the company’s reputation and business relationships.

The plaintiffs further allege that the defendants used social media platforms, review sites, video platforms, anonymous online posts, and branded pages to associate the company’s name with damaging accusations and to discourage performers, clients, and third-party platforms from doing business with CFH.

The company states that the lawsuit is not directed at truthful reviews or protected opinion. Rather, the plaintiffs allege the case concerns false factual statements, misleading online republication, and unauthorized use of its branding, allegedly designed to mislead the public and harm the business. Because the matter is pending, the plaintiffs intend to present their evidence through the judicial process.

The plaintiffs are seeking monetary damages, injunctive relief, and other remedies available under law.

The case is pending in Connecticut Superior Court under Case No. FBT-CV25-5059385-S. Because the matter is now in litigation, the company said it will make further comment as appropriate.

About Characters for Hire ℠

Characters for Hire ℠ is a nationwide live event entertainment company that connects clients with specialty performers, costumed talent, and other event professionals for corporate, private, and promotional events. The company serves clients across the United States through https://charactersforhire.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260324437675/en/

Characters for Hire, LLC Announces Filing of Defamation Lawsuit in Connecticut Superior Court; Complaint alleges false factual accusations, misleading online republication, and unauthorized use of company branding by former independent contractors