Dua Lipa sues Samsung for allegedly using her image without permission

Dua Lipa has taken legal action against Samsung for allegedly using a copyrighted image of her without permission to sell TVs. The pop singer filed a lawsuit in California federal court, accusing Samsung of copyright and trademark infringement, as well as violating her “right of publicity” by featuring her face on cardboard boxes for Samsung TVs.

The image in question, owned by Lipa, depicts her backstage at the Austin City Limits Festival in 2024. In the lawsuit, Lipa is seeking up to $15 million in damages, claiming that Samsung’s use of the image was a deliberate attempt to capitalize on her success without her consent.

According to the complaint, Samsung’s use of the image deceives customers into thinking that Lipa has endorsed the product, thereby diluting her brand identity. One fan even commented on social media that they would purchase the TV simply because Dua Lipa was featured on the packaging.

Samsung has acknowledged using the image of Lipa in 2025 but stated that it was done to reflect the content available on Samsung TVs through their streaming service, Samsung TV Plus. The company claims to have received permission from a content partner to use the image, including on the retail boxes, and denies any intentional misuse.

Lipa’s representatives stated that she first became aware of Samsung’s use of her copyrighted image in June 2025 and requested that the company cease using it. Despite repeated requests, Samsung has allegedly refused to comply, keeping the infringing products on the market.

In response, Samsung stated that they have great respect for Lipa and all artists’ intellectual property rights and remain open to a constructive resolution with Lipa’s team.

As this legal battle unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting artists’ rights and intellectual property. It also highlights the potential consequences of using someone’s image without their permission for commercial gain. Lipa’s case against Samsung will likely have far-reaching implications for how brands and companies approach the use of celebrity images in their marketing efforts.

Edited by Alain Sherter