Johnny Marr Rejects Smiths Reunion Tour Amid Trademark Dispute

The guitarist denies Morrissey's claims of ignoring the offer and explains his actions to protect the band's legacy.

Johnny Marr confirmed he declined a lucrative offer for a 2025 Smiths reunion tour, countering Morrissey's claim that he ignored it.
Marr stated he trademarked The Smiths' name in 2018 to prevent third parties from exploiting it, after Morrissey failed to respond to his request to protect the name jointly.
Morrissey accused Marr of obtaining 100% trademark rights without consultation, which Marr's management refuted, explaining that the trademark is for the mutual benefit of both parties.
In January 2024, Marr signed an assignment of joint ownership of the trademark to Morrissey, but Morrissey has yet to sign the document.
Marr also denied plans to tour with a different frontman and rejected a proposal for another greatest hits compilation, citing the existing number of such albums.