Russian actor and singer Nikita Dzhigurda has filed a lawsuit in the Presnensky District Court of Moscow against vendors selling unauthorized life-sized figures featuring his face and image on an online marketplace.
The artist is demanding 250,000 rubles from each of the defendants as compensation for moral harm resulting from the illegal use of his portrait and personal data in commercial listings.
The legal proceedings were confirmed by the official Telegram channel of Moscow's courts of general jurisdiction, which announced that the statement of claim had been received by the district court.
Merchandise disputes and previous court cases
The lawsuit is not the first time Dzhigurda has turned to the judicial system to protect his commercial image rights. He previously achieved a court victory over businessmen who were selling unauthorized face masks depicting him online, including cardboard masks and fabric balaclavas featuring the artist's likeness that were made available for open purchase on an e-commerce platform.
The case reflects a growing trend of Russian performers defending their image rights against unauthorized e-commerce merchandise. On similar legal grounds, a court previously awarded 200,000 rubles in compensation from an individual female entrepreneur who had decided to sell similar goods featuring the face of acclaimed actor Sergei Bezrukov.
Prominent figures in Russian culture
Dzhigurda is a prominent Russian actor, singer, and media personality who has appeared in numerous theatrical films, television programs, and musical projects. Known for his distinctive deep voice and theatrical public persona, he has remained a widely recognized figure across Russian entertainment for decades.
Bezrukov is equally one of Russia's most widely known cultural figures, an acclaimed stage and screen actor who has played leading roles in major historical drama series and cinematic productions, as well as serving as artistic director of the Moscow Province Theatre.
Under Russian law, an individual's image and personal data are protected against unauthorized commercial exploitation, giving public figures legal recourse when e-commerce sellers produce themed merchandise, apparel, or display items without obtaining permission or paying licensing fees.
