Global music icon Dua Lipa has initiated legal action against a major technology corporation, alleging the unauthorised use of her likeness to promote television sets. The lawsuit, filed on Friday in a California district court, seeks substantial damages and a portion of the profits derived from the product sales.
Details of the Lawsuit
According to the complaint obtained by People magazine, the 30-year-old singer accuses Samsung of using a copyrighted backstage photograph of her on cardboard boxes for TVs sold across the United States without her consent. The image, captured at a live music television event at Austin City Limits in 2024, is registered with the US Copyright Office.
The lawsuit states: “Ms Lipa’s face was prominently used for a mass marketing campaign for a consumer product without her knowledge, without consideration, and as to which she had no say, control, or input whatsoever. Ms Lipa did not allow and would not have allowed this use.”
Financial Claims and Allegations
Lipa is demanding $US15 million (approximately $AU21 million) in damages, in addition to a share of profits linked to the TV sales. The legal filing asserts that the image falsely implies Lipa endorses or is affiliated with the product, thereby encouraging customers to make a purchase based on her association.
The complaint cites several social media posts from fans who claimed they decided to buy the TV after seeing Lipa’s image on the box. One post read: “I wasn’t even planning on buying a TV but I saw the box so I decided to get it.” Another stated: “I’ve always said if you need anything selling just put a picture of Dua Lipa on it.”
Cease-and-Desist Efforts
The lawsuit further alleges that Samsung continued using the image despite receiving cease-and-desist demands from Lipa’s representatives. These demands were sent after the singer became aware of the unauthorised use in June 2025. The complaint describes Samsung’s response as “dismissive and callous,” noting that the products “remain on the market to this day.”
Lipa’s legal team argues that while the singer has collaborated with high-end brands such as Porsche, Apple, Chanel, Tiffany & Co., and many other luxury and fashion houses, she never agreed to a promotional deal with Samsung. The attorneys claim Samsung intentionally capitalised on Lipa’s celebrity status and brand recognition to market its televisions.
The case highlights ongoing issues regarding the unauthorised use of celebrity images in commercial campaigns and the legal protections available to public figures.
