Scarlett Johansson, Kim Kardashian and Ariana Grande
Following news that Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie has taken legal action against Ecobank for allegedly using a look-alike of him in a recent commercial, social media has been buzzing with debate.
While some netizens see nothing wrong with Ecobank’s advertisement, others argue that Sarkodie may have a valid case, especially if his “look-alike” was used without permission.
As the conversation continues, let’s take a look at other notable cases in the global entertainment industry where celebrities have sued brands for using look-alikes in advertisements.
1. Scarlett Johansson vs. OpenAI :
In 2024, popular Hollywood actress, Scarlett Johansson accused Artificial Intelligence firm, OpenAI of using a voice in its ChatGPT assistant that closely resembled hers, despite her prior refusal to lend her voice to the project.
The voice, named “Sky,” sounded similar to Johansson’s role as an AI assistant in the 2013 film “Her.”
After legal action and public outcry, OpenAI paused the use of “Sky” and issued an apology, stating that the voice was not intended to mimic Johansson.
2. Kim Kardashian vs. Old Navy
American actress and socialite Kim Kardashian also sued fashion brand Old Navy in 2011 for featuring a model in their advertisement who closely resembled her.
She alleged that the ad misled viewers into thinking she endorsed the brand.
The lawsuit was settled in 2012 for an undisclosed amount.
3. Ariana Grande vs. Forever 21
American actress and musician, Ariana Grande, filed a $10 million lawsuit against fashion brand Forever 21, claiming the retailer used a look-alike model and imagery reminiscent of her “7 Rings” music video without permission.
The case was settled out of court in 2021.
4. Bette Midler vs. Ford Motor Company
Popular American singer and actress, Bette Midler sued Ford in 1988 after they hired one of her backup singers to imitate her voice in a commercial, following her refusal to participate.
The court ruled in Midler’s favour, recognising her distinctive voice as part of her identity.
5. Vanna White vs. Samsung
In 1993, Tech giant Samsung had created an advertisement featuring a robot dressed like Vanna White, leading her to sue for unauthorised use of her likeness.
Samsung was accused of using a persona similar to that of Vanna White’s to sell their line of video cassette recorders through television commercials.
ID/EB
