A&E, the network behind the popular reality series Storage Wars, is engaged in a legal war with the show’s star, David Hester, who filed a lawsuit claiming the show is fake.

Hester alleged in a lawsuit filed last month that the network committed fraud by planting valuable items and memorabilia on the show, citing the Communications Act of 1934, which makes it illegal for broadcasters to rig a contest with the intent to deceive the public. Hester said that after confronting producers about this, he was fired from the show. He is suing for wrongful termination, breach of contract and unfair business practices, and seeking $750,000 in damages.

The network filed its response in Los Angeles Superior Court last week, accusing Hester of "a transparent attempt to distract from the issues," according to The Hollywood Reporter. Among those issues is a confrontation between A&E and Hester over "improper use of AETN's trademarks," such as using catchphrases like "storage warrior," as well as Hester's reported attempt to renegotiate his contract. The network claims Hester never raised questions about the show’s authenticity, until the renegotiation took place.

Here's Hester talking about Storage Wars a bit more positively last year:

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