MGA Refuses to Accept $71M Loss to T.I., Tiny and OMG Girlz, Files New Appeal

MGA Entertainment is not backing down after a California federal jury awarded T.I., Tiny, and the OMG Girlz $71.4 million in damages for infringing on the group’s likeness with its L.O.L. Surprise! O.M.G. dolls. The toy company has filed an appeal with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, seeking to overturn the verdict or reduce the substantial payout.

The legal battle began in 2020 when MGA preemptively sued the Harris family after receiving a cease-and-desist letter regarding the dolls’ resemblance to the OMG Girlz. The group, formed in 2009 by T.I. and Tiny, includes their daughter Zonnique Pullins. Known for their vibrant fashion and hairstyles, the OMG Girlz claimed that MGA’s dolls copied their distinctive style, leading to a series of trials.
Reuters

The first trial ended in a mistrial due to prohibited testimony about cultural appropriation. The second trial favored MGA, but a third trial resulted in the jury awarding $17.9 million in actual damages and $53.6 million in punitive damages to the Harris family. Judge James Selna initially questioned the punitive damages but ultimately upheld the full amount, adding nearly 4% interest to the award.

MGA argues that the OMG Girlz abandoned their aesthetic years ago and that the dolls’ design does not warrant trademark protection. The company contends that there was no intent to harm and describes the verdict as excessive. As the appeal process unfolds, the $71.4 million payout remains on hold, and the Harris family continues to defend their creative legacy.