Byron Allen Reaches Settlement with McDonald’s
Just days before a high-profile trial was set to begin, media mogul Byron Allen has reached a settlement with McDonald’s in his $10 billion racial discrimination lawsuit against the fast-food giant.
Allen—owner of the Weather Network and Entertainment Studios Networks—filed the suit claiming that McDonald’s systematically excluded Black-owned media companies from its advertising budget, accusing the corporation of racial stereotyping and discriminatory practices.
The case was set to go to trial July 15. But on June 13, both parties agreed to a confidential settlement. While the terms of the agreement remain undisclosed, both sides issued statements signaling a renewed business relationship.
Byron Allen acknowledged gaining greater clarity about McDonald’s advertising structure and expressed optimism about the path ahead. “Our differences are behind us,” he said. “We acknowledge McDonald’s commitment to investing in Black-owned media properties and increasing access to opportunity.”
