It sounds as if the current owners (Indian company OYO Rooms) of Motel 6 decided to end their relationship and missed their contractual payment in January. But his lawsuit claims that they're still using his voice.
Can't find a full copy of the complaint, but could find an image of the first page:
Tom Bodett, known for his radio and TV ads telling travelers that at Motel 6 "we'll leave the light on for you," has sued the motel chain for using his name and voice without permission, after their nearly four-decade relationship broke down.
In a complaint filed on Monday night in Manhattan federal court, Bodett said he cut ties with Motel 6 after its new owner, India-based OYO, missed a $1.2 million annual payment due on January 7 under their contract, which was to end in November.
Bodett said Motel 6 nonetheless kept using his name and voice on its national reservation phone line, violating his rights under the contract and federal trademark law.
Can't find a full copy of the complaint, but could find an image of the first page:
