Pop singer Dua Lipa has filed a lawsuit against Samsung, alleging the company used a copyrighted image of her face on packaging for its televisions without permission. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in California, claims multiple violations, including copyright and trademark infringement and a breach of her “right of publicity.”
The image in question was taken backstage at the Austin City Limits Festival in 2024 and is owned by Lipa. According to the legal complaint, Samsung featured this image on cardboard boxes for their TVs to promote and sell their products without obtaining consent from the singer.
The lawsuit seeks up to $15 million in damages, asserting that Samsung’s actions were intended to “improperly capitalize” on Lipa’s success. It further alleges that the use of her image misleads customers into believing that she endorses Samsung products, thereby diluting her brand identity. The complaint references a social media comment from a fan stating they would buy a Samsung TV solely because Dua Lipa’s image appeared on it.
Lipa reportedly became aware of Samsung’s unauthorized use of her photo in June 2025 and demanded the company cease using it. However, according to her attorneys, Samsung has repeatedly refused to comply and continues to sell the products featuring the image. The suit characterizes the company’s response as “dismissive and callous.”
Samsung has declined to comment on the ongoing litigation. Representatives for Dua Lipa also did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Why it matters
This case highlights the legal challenges surrounding the unauthorized use of celebrity images in advertising and product marketing. It underscores the importance of copyright protections and the right of publicity, which prevents unauthorized commercial exploitation of an individual’s likeness. The outcome could influence how technology companies and other brands approach image rights in product packaging and advertising.
Background
The right of publicity protects individuals from unauthorized commercial use of their identity, including names, images, and likenesses. Copyright law provides ownership protections for original photographs. High-profile lawsuits involving celebrity images can set precedent for future disputes between artists and corporations over image usage without consent.
Sources
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