Department of Justice Files Antitrust Lawsuit Against Live Nation

The Department of Justice filed an antitrust lawsuit Thursday against Ticketmaster’s parent company Live Nation, alleging an illegal monopoly on live events.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Manhattan and joined by 29 states and the District of Columbia, alleges that the company’s practices stifle competition and raise prices for fans.

“We allege that Live Nation relies on unlawful, anticompetitive conduct to exercise its monopoly control over the U.S. live events industry at the expense of fans, artists, smaller promoters and venue operators,” Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement.

“As a result, fans pay more in fees, artists have fewer opportunities to play shows, smaller promoters are eliminated, and venues have fewer choices in ticketing,” Garland continued. “It’s time to part ways with Live Nation-Ticketmaster.”

Live Nation has denied monopolistic practices.

This is a developing story. Check back later for further updates.