Photo Credit: Getty Images
Dua Lipa has taken Samsung to court, accusing the company of using her face to sell televisions without her permission.
The lawsuit, filed May 8 in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, claims copyright infringement, trademark infringement, and misappropriation of her likeness.
At the center of the dispute is a photo titled "Dua Lipa – Backstage at Austin City Limits, 2024", which Lipa owns the copyright to. According to the complaint, Samsung printed the image on cardboard packaging for its TVs, sold nationwide.
"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," the filing states. "Ms. Lipa did not allow and would not have allowed this use."
The singer says she first learned of the packaging in June 2025, after fans began posting online about what they dubbed the "Dua Lipa TV Box."
The lawsuit points to social media comments that highlight the impact of her image on sales. One user admitted, "I wasn't even planning on buying a TV but I saw the box so I decided to get it." Another wrote, "If you need anything selling just put a picture of Dua Lipa on it."
Her attorneys argue that Samsung's actions created a false impression of endorsement and exploited her brand recognition.
"Samsung's copying and distribution of the DL Image constitutes willful copyright and trademark infringement, and a violation of Ms. Lipa's right of publicity, designed to improperly capitalize on Ms. Lipa's hard-earned success," the suit claims.
The filing also alleges that Samsung ignored repeated cease-and-desist letters. "Samsung's response has been dismissive and callous," the complaint adds, noting that the products "remain on the market to this day."
Lipa is seeking damages of "no less than $15 million," along with profits tied to the sale of the televisions.
Her lawyers argue that Samsung's conduct "makes a mockery of her hard work in establishing a successful brand and has deprived her of the ability to control and monetize her assets."
Samsung has yet to respond publicly.
