Dua Lipa sues Samsung for $15m over alleged unauthorised use of image

The pop star, 30, filed the lawsuit on Friday, claiming Samsung used a photograph of her face on television packaging and promotional materials around the world without consent or payment.

“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 alleges. “Ms Lipa did not allow and would not have allowed this use.”

According to the complaint, Samsung began using the image at the start of 2025 on marketing materials and cardboard TV boxes sold internationally. The photograph at the centre of the dispute was taken backstage at the Austin City Limits Festival in 2024, with Ms Lipa claiming ownership of the copyright.

The suit states that after learning of the advertising campaign, she asked Samsung to stop using the image. However, the filing alleges the company was “dismissive and callous” and refused to comply.

Ms Lipa claims Samsung profited from the alleged appearance of her endorsement, despite no agreement existing between the singer and the company. Court filings include social media comments from fans suggesting the image influenced purchasing decisions.

The lawsuit accuses Samsung of copyright infringement, false endorsement and violating Ms Lipa’s right of publicity. She is seeking at least $15 million in damages, in addition to profits allegedly generated through the use of her image.

Her legal team alleges Samsung breached California publicity laws, federal Lanham Act protections and trademark laws designed to prevent unauthorised commercial use of celebrity identities.