Tennessee AG says Ticketmaster, Live Nation ‘breakup is absolutely on the table’ after companies found guilty of violating federal and state antitrust laws

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – A jury has found Live Nation and Ticketmaster guilty of violating federal and state antitrust laws.

Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti and 33 other attorneys general were part of a coalition that filed the lawsuit. The jury decided on Wednesday that the companies had eliminated competition and drove up costs for fans, artists and venues.

“Live Nation and Ticketmaster have ripped off consumers for decades,” Skrmetti said. “…They’re finally being held accountable. A jury determined that Live Nation and Ticketmaster are an illegal monopoly … a breakup is absolutely on the table.”

Live Nation was sued by Srkmetti and 40 other states, as well as the Department of Justice, in May 2024. They alleged that the company controlled almost every aspect of live events, from venue ownership to promotion and ticketing services through Ticketmaster. This allowed them to raise prices while minimizing competition.

The DOJ reached a settlement with Live Nation last month, but 33 states rejected the settlement and continued litigation.

Skrmetti and others in the coalition will attend a separate bench trial at a later date to argue for the penalties the companies should face.

“It’s been over 40 years since an antitrust case resulted in breaking up a company,” Skrmetti said, “and I think we’re due.”