The owners of ‘The Cosby Show’ sued Viacom.

The Carsey-Werner Co. said it filed a suit in U.S. District Court in Manhattan because it has failed to win assurances that it will be paid fees promptly by Viacom International, which owns the non-network distribution rights to the popular television show. Carsey-Werner, citing concerns that a pending Viacom buyout will result in $2.5 billion in new debt, said it wants the show’s revenue placed beyond the reach of creditors. Viacom Senior Vice President Ronald Lightstone declined comment.