Ariana Grande Sues Forever 21 Over Look-Alike Model in Ads

Ariana Grande has filed a $10 million lawsuit against Forever 21 and spin-off Riley Rose, alleging they stole her name and likeness to promote their brands for free.

After the pop star released the hit song “Thank U, Next” last November, the fashion brand “sought her endorsement of its clothing and accessory products.” Grande declined due to their unwillingness to pay her fair market value, the lawsuit states.

The singer claims that the clothing chain then launched misleading campaigns on their websites and social media, publishing at least 30 unauthorized images and videos that misappropriate her name and likeness.

The suit, filed Monday in Federal District Court in Los Angeles, alleges that the company sought to trick customers into thinking Grande endorsed its brand by posting photos of her on its social media accounts.

The complaint claims that the posts feature actual photos of Grande as well as a model that looks “strikingly similar” and who was styled with a similar fashion style and hairdo.

“The resemblance is uncanny and Forever 21’s intent was clear: to suggest to the viewing public that Ms. Grande endorsed Forever 21, its products, and was affiliated with Forever 21,” the lawsuit states.

Grande is seeking at least $10 million in damages for copyright and trademark infringement, false endorsement and violating her right of publicity.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Forever 21 said, “while we dispute the allegations, we are huge supporters of Ariana Grande and have worked with her licensing company over the past two years. We are hopeful that we will find a mutually agreeable resolution and can continue to work together in the future.”

Forever 21 is no stranger to lawsuits, having been sued by Diane Von Furstenberg, Gucci, Puma and Adidas for allegedly infringing on their copyrights.

The fashion retailer is also reportedly preparing to file for bankruptcy, with their sales decreasing an estimated 20 to 25 percent last year.

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