There can be only one Lady Gaga.
The pop icon filed suit in Manhattan Supreme Court today against a company that’s been trying to trademark the name “Lady Gaga By Design” for a line of cosmetics and jewelry.
The suit says the company, Excite Worldwide, is well aware that the US Patent and Trademark office won’t grant its request, but its continuing to press forward with its application anyway, the suit says.
“Defendants are aware that their applications will never be granted in the absence of plaintiffs’ consent, which defendants have been told will never be given,” the suit says. “Nevertheless, defendants continue to try to ‘squat’ on plaintiffs’ rights . . . by filing frivolous applications.”
The company’s motivation is unclear, but it’s causing Gaga headaches.
The suit notes says the “Born This Way” singer – who’s real name is Stefani Germanotta – has already registered her stage name for clothes, ring tones, her website and chat rooms, and that she has pending trademark applications for hair, body and nail products, candles, key chains, cell phone accessories, posters, writing utensils, umbrella, tattoos, novelty buttons and headbands, among other things.
As a result of Excite’s shenanigans, her application for jewelry and fragrances have yet to be granted, and there’s “confusion” in the marketplace, the suit says. The suit seeks a court order barring Excite from filing Gaga related applications and unspecified money damages.
Excite did not return a call for comment.