Rapper T.I. and his wife, Tameka “Tiny” Harris, have secured a major legal win in their ongoing lawsuit against MGA Entertainment. The couple, along with the OMG Girlz, will receive $53.6 million in punitive damages after a federal judge ruled in their favor. This amount, combined with $17.9 million in actual damages, brings the total award to $71.5 million.
The case revolved around claims that MGA Entertainment used the likeness of the OMG Girlz to create their O.M.G. Dolls without permission. The girl group, formed by Tiny Harris, included her daughter Zonnique Pullins, Bahja “Beauty” Rodriguez, and Breaunna “Babydoll” Womack. Their legal team argued that the dolls closely resembled the group’s unique image and style, leading to a copyright infringement lawsuit.
Last month, U.S. District Judge James V. Selna initially questioned the large punitive damages amount, suggesting it might be reduced. He believed there was insufficient evidence to justify the $53.6 million sum. However, after further review, he upheld the jury’s original decision.
“Upon consideration of the evidence, the Court grants disgorgement of profits of $17,872,252 under common law misappropriation, and affirms the jury’s award of punitive damages of $53,616,759,” the court filing stated.
T.I. and Tiny Legal Victory After Multiple Setbacks
This ruling marks a significant win for T.I., Tiny, and the OMG Girlz, as the case faced multiple challenges. The lawsuit previously resulted in a mistrial, and at one point, MGA had a legal victory. However, this final ruling affirms the group’s claims and ensures they will receive the full damages awarded by the jury.
Following the decision, Tiny Harris reacted by saying, “The third time’s the charm,” acknowledging the long legal battle they had endured.
With this ruling in place, the next step will involve the distribution of the awarded funds. It is still unclear whether MGA Entertainment will appeal the decision or take any further legal action.