Real world people as characters?

[Tortuga]

Hey folks,

Was just wanting to double check if anyone here knows if real world celebrities (alive or dead) are off limits for MA arcs?  One arc I had thought of hinges on the presence of a well-known person that died in the early 80s.  Anyone know?

[Lionheart]

I think (but do not know) that it is frowned upon. However, I have seen a few (especially political figures) in MA arcs. Unless somebody reports it as offensive, it's probably not a big deal.

[B A D]

I'm a character in my own  arc, and Im deeply offended.

[Funeral-Pyre]

I'm a character in my own  arc, and Im deeply offended.

We are too!

[Kommando]

I think you would have to treat it as intellectual property, as name and image can fall under similar rulings when it comes to copyright and trademarks.  Celebrities I'd be quite careful with, politicians slightly less so.  However, I would avoid using real world characters if possible (with the exception of historical figures, people already dead whose estate won't sue you) and go the safer route of Homage or Parody.  That said, I would consider getting back online to play your Andy Kaufman arc.