In-N-Out Burger has filed a federal lawsuit against YouTuber Bryan Arnett, accusing him of impersonating an employee and pulling a controversial prank at one of the chain’s locations in Southern California. The incident occurred on April 25, when Arnett dressed in official-looking In-N-Out attire, including a branded hat and red apron, and approached customers at a closed drive-thru. During the prank, he offered fake menu items and made inappropriate comments to guests, including offensive jokes and false claims about food safety.
The fast-food chain is seeking damages for defamation, trademark infringement, and harm to its brand reputation. In the lawsuit filed on June 20, In-N-Out described Arnett’s behavior as lewd and disturbing, claiming that his impersonation of an employee misled customers and violated the company’s intellectual property rights. The company had previously issued a cease-and-desist order in May demanding that Arnett remove the video, which he has since made private.
In addition to asking the court for financial compensation, In-N-Out is requesting an injunction that would ban Arnett from entering any of its locations. Arnett, in a follow-up video, acknowledged that legal consequences might follow.
This isn’t the first time In-N-Out has taken legal action to defend its brand. The company has a history of pursuing lawsuits against individuals who attempt to impersonate staff or misrepresent its image. Known for its clean and family-friendly reputation, the chain remains vigilant in protecting its name from what it views as harmful and misleading behavior.