James Dolan: The billionaire behind the business (and the beer ban)
Madison Square Garden first started implementing facial recognition systems at its venue back in 2018 but has only more recently gained attention for using those systems to target lawyers. The man credited with the new policy is controversial MSG CEO and billionaire James Dolan. The loudmouthed executive has a history of squaring off with fans, media, and lawmakers alike, and hasn’t been shy about threatening people who get on his bad side with lifetime bans.
Dolan spoke out about the facial recognition bans this week, during an unhinged morning talk show appearance where he criticized lawmakers for looking into his bans on fans, which he claimed he was entitled to implement under the Bill of Rights. At one point during the interview, Dolan reportedly targeted the head of the New York State Liquor Authority to “stick to his knitting.” The Liquor Authority has launched an investigation into Dolan’s targeting of lawyers and suggested it was considering taking away his liquor license. In response, Dolan said he would beat them to the punch and implement a “beer ban” of his own.
