Al Jardine has been a key part of the Beach Boys since their start in 1961, sharing the stage with Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson, along with their cousin Mike Love. Despite being a founding member and spending over 60 years with the band, Jardine does not tour with Mike Love’s current Beach Boys lineup.
While he continues to make music, such as his recent single dedicated to longtime bandmate Brian Wilson, “Wish,” Jardine’s career has taken a troubling turn. He now faces a lawsuit that puts him in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
What is Al Jardine being sued for?
Jardine has been accused of breaching a contract involving signed Beach Boys memorabilia. According to Mead Chasky, the man suing him, Jardine had agreed to sign merchandise advertised as autographed by three Beach Boys members. Chasky claims Jardine refused to follow through, breaking their agreement.
Chasky is a memorabilia dealer with nearly 50 years in the business and is seeking $100,000 in damages plus legal fees. His attorney alleges that this deal was a formal business agreement rather than a casual fan request. If the allegations hold up, Jardine could face significant financial consequences.
Al Jardine has been caught up in several lawsuits over the years
This is not Jardine’s first time being entangled in lawsuits. Over the years, he has faced several legal disputes, including issues with Brother Records Inc. (BRI) and even his bandmates. In 1999, BRI took Jardine to court for using the Beach Boys’ name without proper authorization.
Jardine promoted his band under the iconic name and later filed a lawsuit against Brian Wilson, claiming he was unfairly excluded from Beach Boys concerts. Promoters have also landed Jardine in legal trouble, often misrepresenting his performances as official Beach Boys shows.