Rapper T.I., also known as Clifford Harris, and his wife Tameka “Tiny” Harris were back in a California courtroom this Tuesday, marking their third legal battle against a toy company accused of infringing on their intellectual property. The couple claims that MGA Entertainment, a major player in the toy industry, unlawfully mimicked the distinctive “trade dress” and overall aesthetic of their all-female musical act, the OMG Girlz, which was created in 2009 and co-owned by the Harrises.
During the opening statements, the couple’s lawyer, John Keville, argued that MGA Entertainment had become a “willful infringer” by incorporating elements that closely resembled the OMG Girlz’s unique and vibrant style. This includes their signature colorful hairstyles, costumes, and distinctive looks, which Keville asserts were replicated in MGA’s “L.O.L. Surprise! O.M.G.” doll line. Keville emphasized that T.I. and Tiny are seeking damages in the range of $17 million to $25 million. He also warned the jury to anticipate attempts by MGA to discredit T.I., a prominent figure known for his groundbreaking contributions to the trap music genre and his various legal issues.
In contrast, MGA Entertainment’s attorney, Paul J. Loh, dismissed the allegations, labeling the lawsuit as nothing more than a “money grab” and a “family hustle.” Loh painted the case as a mere extortion attempt rather than a legitimate intellectual property dispute. He further criticized T.I., highlighting video clips from T.I.’s depositions where he appeared disinterested, wearing sunglasses indoors and responding with repetitive phrases. Loh implied that T.I. lacked concern for the details and seriousness of the case.
Despite these claims, T.I. appeared unfazed as he exited the courthouse. He expressed confidence and a sense of pride in standing by his family’s side.
“I’m chill. I’m here to support my wife, my daughter, and my nieces. I’m proud of them for standing up for their intellectual property,”
He was seen leaving the courthouse in Santa Ana, California, with Tiny, her daughter Zonnique Pullins (a founding member of the OMG Girlz), and the other group members, Bahja “Beauty” Rodriguez and Breaunna “Babydoll” Womack.
The case has become familiar to U.S. District Court Judge James V. Selna, who is overseeing the trial. The dispute first went to trial in January 2023 but ended in a mistrial after jurors were exposed to prohibited testimony accusing MGA of engaging in “racist cultural appropriation.” The retrial in spring 2023 resulted in a verdict favoring MGA Entertainment and its billionaire founder, Isaac Larian. However, T.I. and Tiny were granted another chance to pursue their case in September 2023 after the Supreme Court ruled that the First Amendment did not shield MGA from the claims of intellectual property infringement.
As the trial progresses, both sides are expected to present their full arguments and evidence. The outcome will hinge on whether the jury believes MGA Entertainment’s designs were a genuine creative innovation or an infringing replication of the OMG Girlz’s unique brand.
