$71 Million Verdict: T.I. and Tiny’s OMG Girlz Music Group Win Trademark Case Against LOL Surprise Dolls Maker
Written by: Karabo Samunzala
Edited by: Tshegofatso M Seretse (Nee Gareegope)
T.I. & Tiny Win Big in Court: What This Means for Creatives Like You
Imagine coming up with a creative idea, only to see someone else use it—and make millions from it. That’s exactly what happened to famous artists T.I and his wife Tiny Harris. But instead of doing nothing about it, they took the matter to court… and won $71 million. Here’s what happened and why you, as a creative or business owner, should pay attention. Subscribe for more…
What Was the Case About?
T.I. and his wife Tiny formed a girl music group in 2009 called the OMG Girlz. The group had a bold, colorful style and gained popularity with young fans around the world. They stopped performing in 2015, but their image—name, fashion, and colours—remained known.
In 2020, a toy company called MGA Entertainment launched a line of LOL Surprise OMG Dolls. These dolls had similar fashion, colours and even the name “OMG”. T.I. and Tiny believed the dolls looked too much like the OMG Girlz, and that the company copied their style without permission thus trademark infringement.
Taking It to Court
The couple filed a lawsuit in 2022, arguing that:
- MGA used their brand (“OMG”) without consent
- The dolls’ look copied the group’s image
- MGA made money from something they didn’t create
The toy company denied the claims, saying the dolls were original. But after a full court process, the jury agreed with T.I. and Tiny.
The Verdict
The court awarded the couple $71 million in damages. This is one of the biggest wins for a case involving creative work and intellectual property.
It sends a strong message that:
- If you create something original, you have a right to protect it.
- Even big companies can be held accountable for copying.
Why This Matters for You
You don’t have to be a celebrity for the law to protect your ideas. Whether you’re a designer, content creator, musician, or small business owner, your work matters.
Here are 3 lessons from this case:
1. Register Your Brand
- Protect your name, logo, colours, and style by registering a trademark.
- In Botswana, you can do this through CIPA (Companies and Intellectual Property Authority).
2. Document Your Work
- Keep records of your designs, logos, and creative ideas.
- Take dated screenshots, save drafts, and file your concepts.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up
- If someone uses your work without permission, you have the right to act.
- Speak to a lawyer or legal advisor and know your options.
Conclusion
T.I. and Tiny’s win is more than a headline—it’s a reminder that ideas are valuable, and the law can protect those who stand up for their work.
If you’re building a brand, don’t wait until something goes wrong. Take action now to protect what you’re creating.
💡 For more legal tips for creatives and business owners, join our Legal Dialog Newsletter.
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