Dua Lipa Sues Samsung Over Unauthorized Image Use on TV Boxes

TL;DR: Dua Lipa filed a lawsuit against Samsung alleging that the company used her image on TV boxes without permission, violating copyright, trademark and right‑of‑publicity laws.

On Friday, the pop star took legal action after discovering her likeness on Samsung television packaging in mid‑2025. The right of publicity lets individuals control commercial use of their name, image, or likeness.

Trademark law protects brand identifiers that could cause confusion about endorsement. Copyright protects original artistic works, such as photographs.

In the past year, several musicians have pursued similar claims against advertisers and manufacturers for unauthorized imagery. The lawsuit was filed in the US District Court for the Central District of California.

Lipa says she first saw the unauthorized boxes in June 2025, sent a cease‑and‑desist letter, and received no response. Samsung continues to sell the TVs bearing her image across the United States, with retail listings showing the packaging as of August 2025.

The complaint claims the use mocks her hard work and deprives her of control over her brand. Lipa alleges that Samsung’s conduct constitutes copyright infringement, trademark infringement, and a violation of her right of publicity.

She seeks damages, an injunction to stop further sales, and a court order requiring Samsung to destroy existing inventory.

If the court finds infringement, Lipa could receive monetary damages that may reach into the millions of dollars, based on typical awards in right‑of‑publicity cases. An injunction could halt further distribution of the TV boxes, forcing Samsung to redesign its packaging.

The case may set a precedent for how manufacturers treat celebrity images on product packaging, potentially encouraging stricter licensing practices. Observers will watch for Samsung’s response, any settlement talks, and the court’s schedule for a preliminary hearing.

The court is expected to schedule a preliminary hearing within the next six weeks, which will determine whether the case proceeds to trial or moves toward settlement.