Gregory's 16 novels went on to sell an estimated 2 million copies for which she got a total of $180,000 in advances. But beyond her title as a co-producer on both films, she had limited creative input as Disney turned her books into a television and marketing phenomenon.
The first movie was broadcast in 2003, drawing an estimated 6.5 million viewers on its first night; the second aired in 2006, attracting 8 million. Two CD soundtracks sold a combined 3 million copies. National concert tours in each of the last three years have played to sold-out crowds. Merchandise made by a flurry of companies who leased the rights from Disney began flooding into malls across the nation.
Yet Gregory didn't share in this bounty. Asked to explain what happened to her former client, Richardson declined to comment, even though Gregory gave her permission to talk about the case. The attorney said she represented the author long ago and that the files were in storage.
For some, the lessons are clear: "If somebody from Hollywood tells you they love your novel and they'll take care of you on the back end, run for the hills and double the price," Ellison said. More important, don't make the same mistake twice.
In June, Random House will publish "Catwalk," the first in a new series of novels by Gregory about budding fashionistas in New York. Once again, there has been Hollywood interest. But this time, Gregory vows to be patient in negotiating a contract.
She's represented by the William Morris Agency and has also retained Lisa Davis, a veteran New York entertainment lawyer, to get her a much better deal this time around.
Davis is reluctant to say what she'll be looking for, citing confidentiality, but she is keenly aware of what happened to Gregory with the Cheetah Girls.
"I have a close relationship with my clients, and I do consider myself an advocate," said Davis, who also represents Terry McMillan and director Spike Lee.
"When it comes to authors, they have sweated to create characters that resonate with a large audience. They have created a whole world. And they should be paid for it."
josh.getlin@latimes.com
