Singer Dua Lipa is suing Samsung Electronics Co. for $15 million [1] after the company allegedly used her image on TV packaging without permission.
The lawsuit highlights the growing tension between global celebrities and tech giants over the control of personal likeness and the legal boundaries of unauthorized endorsements.
Filed in a U.S. federal court in early May 2026 [2], the complaint alleges that Samsung used the singer's likeness on product packaging for televisions [1]. According to the filing, this usage constituted an unauthorized endorsement of the electronics manufacturer's products [3].
Lipa said in the complaint filing, "Samsung repeatedly refused to cease using my image" [1]. The lawsuit alleges that the company ignored requests to stop using the photograph, which created a false impression that the singer had agreed to a promotional deal [3].
Legal documents state that the packaging made it appear as though Lipa endorsed the products despite her never agreeing to such a deal [3]. The singer is seeking $15 million [1] in damages for the unauthorized use of her likeness.
Reports on when the usage began vary. One source said that Samsung used her likeness starting in 2025, while other reports note the complaint does not specify a start year [2].
Samsung has not issued a formal response to the allegations as of this week. The case now moves toward the discovery phase in federal court [1].
“"Samsung repeatedly refused to cease using my image."”
This litigation underscores the high financial stakes of 'right of publicity' laws. By seeking $15 million, Lipa is asserting that her brand value is a protectable asset that cannot be leveraged by corporations for commercial gain without a formal contract, regardless of the medium of the advertisement.
