That's actually kind of fascinating. I'm obviously not a legal / licensing expert, but I can see where these specific characters "toe the line" in terms of cross-licensing, parody, and controversy, especially if they appeared in sub-licensed (read, cash-grab) products:
- King JB: Anyone who's seen this episode timed/linked with the Joe Paterno (and similar) scandal knows it is a brilliant bit of commentary, and even then it's uncomfortable for many, so it should only remain visible in that context.
- Abradolf Lincler: arguably not as bad King JB, but god forbid some alt-right or neo-nazi group started latching to this. R&M has enough fanbase problems as it is.
- Gazorpazorpfield: I've honestly wondered how PAWS, Inc. felt about this to begin with. Seems they probably indulged the fun of it... as long as it's not made part of a money-grab.
- Scary Terry: hands make define the character trademarks of Wolverine (Marvel / Disney) and Freddy Kreuger (New Line)... the feast starts as soon as the cash grab begins.
- Ice-T: "“Never mumble some sarcastic shit to somebody who can obviously fuck you up.”