Live Nation Trial Week 3: OVG CEO Reveals Ticketmaster’s Secret Fees Amidst Competitive Landscape for Top Tours

The third week of the Live Nation antitrust trial unfolded with significant testimony from Chris Granger, the new CEO of Oak View Group (OVG), regarding a controversial client-steering arrangement with Ticketmaster. Granger’s statements highlighted the complexities of the ongoing legal battle, as Live Nation’s first defense witness emphasized the multitude of promoter options available for top touring acts.

Key Testimonies and Developments

During the proceedings, Granger confirmed that OVG had a $20 million arrangement with Ticketmaster that incentivized venues to select Ticketmaster as their exclusive primary ticketing vendor. This arrangement, which was not disclosed to clients, has raised questions about transparency and fairness in the industry. Granger acknowledged that the lack of disclosure was a mistake, stating, “I don’t know why, we should have.”

The trial has seen state attorneys general largely conclude their case against Live Nation, although they plan to call additional witnesses later due to scheduling conflicts. The defense case is expected to continue for another week, featuring testimony from notable figures, including Drake’s manager, Adel Nur, also known as Future the Prince.

Background on the Antitrust Case

The ongoing antitrust case is now primarily led by state attorneys general following a settlement between the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Live Nation. Reports indicate that former President Donald Trump advocated for this settlement, which was influenced by Ari Emanuel, CEO of Endeavor and a former board member of Live Nation. Although the settlement requires Live Nation to modify some allegedly anticompetitive practices, it does not mandate the divestment of Ticketmaster. States such as New York and California are actively pursuing the goal of breaking up the two live event giants.

Competitive Landscape Highlighted

Omar Al-joulani, Live Nation’s president of touring, testified that the company is not a monopolist. He pointed out that Live Nation collaborates with top artists like Coldplay, Kendrick Lamar, and Drake, but lacks long-term contracts with them, necessitating continuous efforts to demonstrate its value as a promoter. Al-joulani emphasized the competitive nature of the industry, stating, “There are lots of promoter options,” and noted that Live Nation has lost business opportunities with high-profile artists like Morgan Wallen and Bruce Springsteen.

Expert Witnesses and Economic Insights

The jury also heard from Nicholas Hill and Rosa M. Abrantes-Metz, two PhD economists serving as expert witnesses for the states. Their insights, along with testimonies from Ticketmaster’s global president Mark Yovich and former AEG Presents president Rick Mueller, are expected to provide a comprehensive understanding of the market dynamics at play.

Granger’s testimony is particularly significant, as OVG has been a focal point in the antitrust case since its inception. The DOJ’s initial complaint alleged that OVG acted as a facilitator for Ticketmaster’s exclusivity arrangements, which are central to the monopoly claims. OVG had previously stipulated to certain facts as part of its non-prosecution agreement related to the indictment of its founder, Tim Leiweke, on federal bid-rigging charges.

Implications of the Trial

The implications of this trial extend beyond the courtroom, as it addresses broader concerns regarding competition in the live entertainment industry. While the DOJ’s settlement with Live Nation aims to curb some anticompetitive practices, the ongoing efforts by states to dismantle the Ticketmaster-Live Nation partnership reflect a growing scrutiny of monopolistic behaviors in the sector.

As the trial progresses, it remains to be seen how the testimonies and evidence presented will influence the outcome and shape the future of live event promotions.

For further details, visit Billboard.

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Published on 2026-03-28 03:28:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk