Dua Lipa has launched a $15 million lawsuit against electronics giant Samsung, alleging that the company used her likeness without permission in a commercial marketing campaign for its television products.
According to legal documents filed on Friday, 8 May, in the Central District of California, the Grammy-winning artist claims Samsung reproduced a copyrighted backstage photograph of her and placed it on television packaging used to promote and sell multiple TV models. The image in question was reportedly taken during the 2024 Austin City Limits Music Festival and later appeared on retail packaging in 2025.
The complaint accuses Samsung of copyright infringement, trademark infringement, and violation of publicity rights, arguing that the company engaged in what it describes as the “unauthorised commercial exploitation” of her image. The filing further alleges that the photograph was used strategically to capitalise on the singer’s global recognition and influence, thereby increasing product appeal.
Lipa’s legal team contends that the image was displayed prominently on cardboard television boxes in retail environments, creating a misleading impression that she had officially endorsed Samsung products. The lawsuit emphasises that no endorsement agreement, licensing deal, or promotional partnership ever existed between the artist and the company.
The filing also claims that Samsung ignored repeated requests to cease using the image, characterising the company’s response as “dismissive and callous”. It further argues that the continued use of the photograph caused reputational harm and constituted unauthorised commercial gain.
Consumer reactions are also referenced in the complaint. Social media comments cited in the filing suggest that some buyers were influenced by the packaging, with at least one individual reportedly stating they purchased a television after seeing Lipa’s image on the box, while another allegedly noted they would consider buying the product solely because of her presence on the packaging.
Summary of Key Allegations
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Plaintiff | Dua Lipa |
| Defendant | Samsung |
| Claim Value | $15 million |
| Core Allegation | Unauthorised use of copyrighted image |
| Image Source | 2024 Austin City Limits Festival |
| Alleged Use | TV packaging (2025) |
| Legal Grounds | Copyright, trademark, publicity rights |
| Key Issue | Implied endorsement without consent |
The lawsuit asserts that the use of Lipa’s image effectively created a false association between the artist and Samsung’s television range, despite the absence of any contractual or professional relationship. Her legal representatives maintain that the case raises broader concerns about celebrity image rights in commercial advertising and the growing risks posed by unauthorised use of digital and photographic content in global marketing campaigns.