Samsung denies ‘allegations of intentional misuse’ over Dua Lipa photo used to sell TVs

Court documents allege that Samsung used a picture of the Grammy award-winning star on the packaging of some of its TVs, and ignored repeated demands to “cease and desist from infringing on her rights”.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Samsung said the image was provided by a content partner, which said permission had been granted to use it.

“Ms Lipa’s image was used in 2025 to reflect the content of our third-party partners that are available on Samsung TVs and was originally provided by a content partner for our free streaming service Samsung TV Plus,” the statement said.

“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.

“Samsung has great respect for Ms Lipa and the intellectual property of all artists.

“We have actively sought and remain open to a constructive resolution with Ms Lipa’s team.”

Documents filed in the US District Court for the Central District of California show the singer is suing the South Korean company for $15 million.

Lipa, who is known for hits including Levitating and One Kiss, is described as a “hugely successful” star, who has “toured extensively and internationally, selling out stadiums across the globe”.

The court papers say that over the last decade, she has “created one of the most successful and recognisable artist brands in the world”, listing collaborations with Chanel, Versace, Yves Saint Laurent, Porsche and Apple amongst others.

The image of Lipa used on the packaging is said to have been taken backstage at the Austin City Limits Festival in Austin, Texas, in 2024.

The court document reads: “Samsung exploited Ms Lipa’s carefully curated and extremely valuable brand identity to sell televisions, by using, without authorisation, Ms Lipa’s copyrighted image on the front of cardboard boxes offering Samsung televisions for sale.

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

“Ms Lipa brings this action against Samsung for copyright infringement, trademark infringement, and violation of her right of publicity in order to obtain redress for the massive, continuing, unauthorised commercial exploitation of her valuable image and likeness by Samsung on cardboard television boxes.”