A U.S. federal jury has ruled in favor of the OMG Girlz and their parents, granting them a whopping $71.5 million in damages from toy giant MGA Entertainment. This landmark decision follows a protracted legal battle over MGA’s popular “L.O.L. Surprise! O.M.G.” doll line, which the group accused of infringing on their name, likeness, and identity.
The OMG Girlz, alongside their mother and stepfather, Tameka “Tiny” Harris and Chris “T.I.” Harris, argued that MGA’s dolls closely mirrored their unique style and aesthetic. The jury agreed, finding that MGA had violated the group’s “trade dress” and misappropriated their identity.
“This victory is for creatives everywhere,” said group member Bahja Rodriguez. “We will no longer be silenced while others profit from our ideas and creativity.”
MGA, known for brands like Bratz and Mini Verse, has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the dolls were original and that there was no consumer confusion. Despite these claims, the jury awarded OMG Girlz $17.9 million in actual damages and $53.6 million in punitive damages.
This verdict sends a powerful message: corporations cannot exploit others’ intellectual property without facing serious repercussions!
