Pop star Dua Lipa has filed a $15 million lawsuit against Samsung. In a complaint filed in California federal court, she alleges the company used her image on television boxes without permission. According to the filing, Samsung benefited from her likeness without compensating her.
Dua Lipa on SNL – Dua Lipa, YouTube
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Deadline reports that the lawsuit alleges copyright infringement, trademark infringement, and misappropriation of Lipa’s likeness and image.
Dua Lipa Alleges Unauthorized Use of Her Image
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.” It goes on to add, “Ms. Lipa did not allow and would not have allowed this use.”
Dua Lipa claims Samsung has used her picture on television boxes since 2025. The image reportedly came from a backstage photo taken during her appearance at the Austin City Limits music festival. Her lawyers argue that Dua Lipa owns the image and that Samsung’s use constitutes copyright infringement.
Yesterday, Dua Lipa sued Samsung for using her image on TV boxes without permission.
She seeks actual damages of at least $15 million.
She alleges straightforward claims for violating her publicity rights and false endorsement, in addition to copyright and trademark claims.… pic.twitter.com/tUkJ5xg5cn
— Rob Freund (@RobertFreundLaw) May 9, 2026
She reportedly became aware of the packaging last June after several social media users posted about it on X. Those posts, included in the court filings, allegedly claimed her image influenced their decision to purchase the televisions. “I wasn’t even planning on buying a tv but I saw the box so I decided to get it,” one user allegedly wrote.
Another post included in the filing came from a user who suggested that any company looking to market a product should “Just put a picture of Dua Lipa on it.”
Dua Lipa at the Royal Albert Hall – Dua Lipa, YouTube
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After learning about what online users dubbed the “Dua Lipa TV Box,” she filed a cease-and-desist order against Samsung. Variety reports that the lawsuit describes the company’s response as “dismissive and callous.”
Samsung Responds to the Lawsuit
Two days later, Samsung responded in a statement.
“Ms. Lipa’s image was used in 2025 to reflect the content of our third-party partners that is available on Samsung TVs and was originally provided by a content partner for our free streaming service Samsung TV Plus,” the company wrote. “The image was used only after receiving explicit assurance from the content partner that permission had been secured, including for the retail boxes. Given this assurance, we deny any allegations of intentional misuse.”
The statement went on to claim that Samsung has “great respect” for Dua Lipa and the intellectual property of all artistists. In conclusion, they wrote, “We have actively sought and remain open to a constructive resolution with Ms. Lipa’s team.”
What Comes Next for Samsung and Dua Lipa
In addition to being a Grammy-winning singer, Dua Lipa was seen as Mermaid Barbie in Greta Gerwig’s Barbie film. Deadline notes that she will next appear in the comedy Peaked for A24.
Dua Lipa in the music video for Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album) – Dua Lipa, YouTube
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As the case moves forward, the lawsuit could raise broader questions about celebrity image rights and corporate responsibility in advertising. Dua Lipa’s legal team argues that her likeness carried clear commercial value and may have influenced consumer purchases. Samsung, meanwhile, maintains that it relied on assurances from a third-party partner and denies any intentional wrongdoing.
Whether the case ends in court or through a settlement, it highlights the growing legal and financial stakes surrounding image ownership in modern marketing and entertainment.
What do you think of Dua Lipa’s lawsuit against Samsung? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
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