MGA Entertainment Ordered to Pay $71.5 Million for Infringement

A California jury has awarded $71.5 million to the teen pop group OMG Girlz after finding that MGA Entertainment's LOL Surprise! OMG dolls infringed on their name and likeness. The verdict includes $17.9 million in actual damages and $53.6 million in punitive damages, with the payout going to the group's members, including Zonnique Pullins, and her parents, Tameka 'Tiny' Harris and Chris 'T.I.' Harris. The case, which began with a cease-and-desist notice in 2020, involved multiple trials, including mistrials and claims of cultural appropriation. OMG Girlz celebrated the decision as a victory for creative rights, stating that it sends a message against exploitation of their ideas. MGA Entertainment has consistently denied the allegations, arguing that the dolls have been successful without causing consumer confusion.