The Journal. The Ticketmaster Breakup Trial Just Got Messier
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Mar 16, 2026 
Jeff Jackson, North Carolina’s attorney general, and Dave Michaels, a Wall Street Journal reporter on corporate accountability, dig into the Live Nation-Ticketmaster courtroom chaos. They cover the surprise DOJ settlement, monopoly concerns, alleged venue pressure tactics, political maneuvering, and why states are still pushing ahead.
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How Live Nation Built Power Across Concerts
- The DOJ’s case says Live Nation’s power comes from controlling promotion, venues, ads, and Ticketmaster together, not just from high ticket prices.
- Dave Michaels said venues feared losing shows if they dropped Ticketmaster, tying ticketing choices to concert access.
The Barclays Call Became A Trial Centerpiece
- Barclays Center’s John Abamondi testified that switching from Ticketmaster to SeatGeek triggered pressure from Live Nation.
- Jurors heard Michael Rapinoe warn it would be a tough time to deliver concerts with the new competitor in town.
Why The DOJ Settled Midtrial
- The settlement emerged from political dealmaking while trial lawyers were still building a breakup case in court.
- Dave Michaels said senior DOJ officials wanted a fast, visible win, while the judge was angered he learned late about the signed term sheet.