Dua Lipa has initiated legal action against Samsung, seeking $15 million in damages. The singer accuses the electronics giant of exploiting her image to promote their televisions without her consent. The lawsuit was formally filed on a Friday in the Central District of California.
Details of the Lawsuit
The complaint alleges that Samsung featured Lipa’s photograph on their TV packaging starting in 2023. Upon discovering the unapproved use of her likeness, Lipa requested that Samsung cease this practice. However, she claims the company responded with indifference.
Allegations Against Samsung
- Dua Lipa’s likeness was used in a marketing campaign without her knowledge.
- The lawsuit describes Samsung as “dismissive and callous” regarding Lipa’s request to stop.
- She asserts her image made the TVs more appealing, as suggested by comments from customers.
One customer remarked on X, previously Twitter, that they intended to buy a TV after seeing Lipa’s image on the box. Another expressed a strong inclination to purchase the television just due to her presence on it. These comments indicate that her image likely influenced consumer behavior.
Copyright and Publicity Rights
Lipa maintains ownership of the copyright for the photograph in question, taken at the Austin City Limits Festival in 2024. The lawsuit includes several claims, such as:
- Copyright infringement
- Violation of California’s right of publicity statute
- Claims under the federal Lanham Act
- Trademark violations
Dua Lipa is known for her carefully curated brand and is selective about her endorsements. She firmly believes that the unauthorized use of her image has misled customers into thinking she endorses Samsung products, which she does not.
As of now, Samsung has not provided a public response to the allegations presented in the lawsuit.
