Elisabeth Hasselbeck Sued For Plagiarism
The View co-host accused of plagiarism
Self-published author Susan Hassett is accusing Elisabeth Hasselbeck of plagiarism, according to the Boston Globe.
Upon learning that Hasselbeck had celiac disease in April 2008, Hassett says she sent the "View" co-host a copy of her book, "Living With Celiac Disease," in addition to newspaper clippings, a homemade cooking video, a note and her business card.
Hasselbeck found out she suffered from celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder linked to gluten proteins found in wheat, rye and barley, after competing on "Survivor: The Australian Outback" in 2001. The 32-year-old host revealed her affliction last year.
However, with the release of Hasselbeck's book last month, "The G-Free Diet: A Glutton-Free Survival Guide," Hassett's concern for the former "Survivor" contestant turned to rage.
Hasset has filed a federal copyright-infringement lawsuit in Boston claiming that Hasselbeck essentially re-wrote her book and slapped a different title on it. Hassett sent a letter to the seven-month-pregnant TV personality just before filing the suit.
Hasselbeck hasn't commented on the situation and the Boston Herald couldn't reach Hasselbeck's publisher, Hachette Book Group, or ABC representatives for comment.
