British singer Dua Lipa has taken legal action against Samsung Electronics, seeking a minimum of $15 million in damages. The lawsuit claims that Samsung unlawfully used her likeness to promote their television sets without her authorization. Allegedly, Samsung displayed a copyrighted image of Dua Lipa on the front of TV boxes sold in stores, leading consumers to believe she endorsed the product. The image in question, titled “Dua Lipa – Backstage at Austin City Limits, 2024,” is owned entirely by Dua Lipa. The lawsuit was filed in a California federal court on Friday.
Samsung Electronics declined to comment on the ongoing legal matter. Dua Lipa’s legal representatives have not yet responded to requests for comments regarding the case. In addition to copyright and trademark violations, Dua Lipa has accused Samsung of violating her publicity rights.
The legal documents include screenshots of social media interactions, demonstrating how Dua Lipa’s image on the TV boxes influenced potential buyers. One fan’s comment indicated they would purchase the TV simply because Dua Lipa was featured on it. Dua Lipa first became aware of Samsung’s alleged infringement in June of the previous year and requested that Samsung cease using her image. Despite her demands, Samsung reportedly continued to use the image without authorization.
According to Lipa’s lawyers, Samsung’s unauthorized use of her image has harmed her brand identity and commercial reputation by falsely suggesting her endorsement of the products.