Odd News

NYC Naked Cowboy to Naked Cowgirl: Stop copying me

(Agencies)
Updated: 2010-06-23 08:51

In this July 22, 2009 file photo, Robert Burck, also known as The Naked Cowboy, speaks to reporters during a news conference in New York's Times Square.[Photo/Agencies]

NEW YORK – New York City's famous Naked Cowboy wants a bikini-clad woman who calls herself The Naked Cowgirl to stop ripping off his trademark.

The Times Square cowboy, whose real name is Robert Burck, is known for strumming his guitar wearing only briefs and a cowboy hat. He has sent a cease-and-desist letter to Sandy Kane, who wears a red, white and blue cowboy hat and matching bikini.

Burck says if Kane's going to make money by posing for photos, he wants her to sign a "Naked Cowboy Franchise Agreement." Most of his licensed franchisees are required to pay $5,000 a year or $500 a month and go through a screening process.

Kane, who is in her 50s, is a former stripper who's now a fixture of the city comedy scene. Her real name is Sandra Brodsky. She says she doesn't owe Burck anything.