Samsung Moves to Dismiss Dua Lipa Trademark Lawsuit

Samsung Electronics filed a motion to dismiss on or around September 10, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California seeking to end Dua Lipa’s trademark and related claims. The pop star sued in May 2026, seeking at least $15 million in damages over the alleged use of a copyrighted photograph of her on cardboard boxes for Samsung televisions sold in the United States.

Lipa’s complaint asserted claims including trademark infringement under the Lanham Act, false endorsement, common law trademark infringement, contributory infringement, copyright infringement, and violation of her right of publicity. She alleged the image, taken backstage at the 2024 Austin City Limits festival, was used without authorization to promote Samsung products.

In its motion, Samsung contends that Lipa cannot assert trademark rights in her own image or likeness. The company further argues that the packaging images merely depict the television’s on-screen interface and do not suggest endorsement. Samsung stated the image originated from a third-party content partner that provided assurances regarding rights clearance.

The motion is scheduled for hearing on December 14, 2026. The underlying dispute involves the intersection of trademark, copyright, and publicity rights in commercial product packaging featuring celebrity imagery.

Sources: https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/samsung-moves-to-dismiss-dua-lipas-15m-lawsuit-arguing-she-holds-no-trademark-in-her-own-image/ https://trademarklawyermagazine.com/trademark-news/