Los Angeles Creator Files Lawsuit Over Alleged Misappropriation of Series Concept "Rainbow Estate

LOS ANGELES - Aug. 13, 2025 - PRLog -- Award-winning LGBT playwright and producer John Trapper has filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court (Case No. 25STCV22973) against Hulu, 3 Arts Entertainment, KoMut Entertainment, Fox Television, and industry veteran Leslie Kolins Small, alleging misappropriation of his original television series concept, Rainbow Estates.

Trapper, known for his successful stage production The Golden Gays, claims that Hulu's 2025 release Mid-Century Modern bears "clear and substantial similarity" to his 2013 pitch of Rainbow Estates, which centered on the comedic and heartfelt dynamics between three older gay men sharing a home in Palm Springs. According to the complaint, the concept was pitched to key industry figures — including Leslie Kolins Small, who has maintained continuous ties to major entertainment companies since 2013 — before being allegedly reworked and produced without credit or compensation.

"This case isn't just about me — it's about protecting creators in an industry where original ideas are too often taken without acknowledgment," said Trapper. "Writers and independent producers should not have to watch their work transformed into corporate content without a seat at the table."

The lawsuit asserts causes of action including misappropriation of ideas, breach of implied-in-fact contract, unjust enrichment, and unfair competition. Trapper is seeking credit, compensation, and injunctive relief.

Full case details and updates are available at MidCenturyModernLawsuit.info.