Celebrity Name Trademark: Why It’s A Smart Move For Your Brand
Introduction
In the entertainment and business world, a name is more than just an identity—it’s a brand. Celebrities, business moguls, athletes and influencers build their careers and reputations around their names. However, without legal protection, others can misuse their names for profit. That’s why trademarking a celebrity name is a smart and necessary step.
What Is a Trademark?
A trademark is a legal right that gives exclusive ownership over a name, logo, slogan or brand identity. For celebrities, trademarking their names ensures that no one else can use them for commercial purposes without permission. This prevents unauthorized businesses, fan pages or counterfeit products from profiting off their fame.
Examples of Celebrity Trademarks:
• Taylor Swift has trademarked her name, song lyrics and even phrases like “This Sick Beat.”
• Cristiano Ronaldo has trademarked “CR7” for his brand of clothing, footwear and accessories.
• Kylie Jenner trademarked her first name “Kylie” to protect her cosmetics brand.
• Ashneer Grover, former BharatPe co-founder, trademarked his name to secure exclusive rights over it.
Why Should Celebrities Trademark Their Names?
1. Prevents Unauthorized Use & Imitation
When a celebrity’s name gains popularity, businesses try to cash in by using similar names or branding. Trademarking ensures that no one else can legally use or register the name for commercial purposes.
Example:
• Ashneer Grover filed for a trademark on his name to prevent others from using it without permission. As a well-known entrepreneur, his name carries significant brand value and securing a trademark helps him maintain control over it.
• Michael Jordan had to sue a Chinese company for using his name without permission to sell sportswear.
2. Protects Brand Value & Reputation
A celebrity’s name is linked to their reputation. If unauthorized brands sell low-quality products using a celebrity’s name, it can damage their image. A trademark allows control over how their name is used.
Example:
• Ashneer Grover, known for his role in Shark Tank India and the business world, trademarked his name to prevent misuse in any financial or business sector.
3. Creates Business & Income Opportunities
A trademarked name becomes an asset. Celebrities can launch businesses under their name, such as clothing lines, fragrances or merchandise without fear of competitors misusing their identity.
Example:
• Rihanna trademarked her name for her “Fenty” brand, which includes Fenty Beauty, Fenty Skin and Savage X Fenty lingerie.
• Ashneer Grover having built a strong brand identity, can now use his name for future business ventures while legally restricting unauthorized usage.
4. Stops Fake Merchandise & Counterfeit Products
Unauthorized sellers often use celebrity names to sell fake products. A trademark helps celebrities take legal action against such businesses.
Example:
• Justin Bieber trademarked his name to stop fake merchandise from being sold under his brand.
• Ashneer Grover securing his name ensures that no fake financial services or products can be marketed using his identity.
5. Legal Advantage in Case of Disputes
If someone tries to use a celebrity’s name without permission, a registered trademark gives them a legal edge to stop the misuse and claim damages.
Example:
• Kylie Jenner had to defend her trademark when Kylie Minogue challenged her attempt to register “Kylie.”
• Ashneer Grover’s trademark will prevent competitors or unauthorized parties from attempting to use his name in misleading ways.
6. Helps in Expanding to Other Markets
A trademarked name allows celebrities to expand their brand into different industries, such as fashion, perfumes, or tech. It gives them exclusive rights to use their name worldwide.
Example:
• Jay-Z trademarked his name for use in music, entertainment, and sports management businesses.
• Ashneer Grover’s trademark could help him launch new businesses, books, investment firms or even consultancy services under his own name.
Trademark Classes for Celebrity Names
Trademark registration is categorized into 45 classes, depending on the type of goods or services being protected. Celebrities can register their name under multiple classes based on their business activities.
Here are some important classes under which celebrities typically register their trademarks:
- Class 3: Cosmetics & Beauty Products. If the celebrity wants to launch perfumes, skincare, or beauty products (e.g., Kylie Jenner’s Kylie Cosmetics)
- Class 9: Digital & Electronic Goods Protects celebrity branding on apps, podcasts, music albums, software, etc. (e.g., Taylor Swift’s music)
- Class 16: Books & Printed Materials If the celebrity writes books, autobiographies, or magazine publications (e.g., Ashneer Grover’s book Doglapan)
- Class 25: Clothing, Footwear & Apparel Protects celebrity fashion brands and merchandise (e.g., Cristiano Ronaldo’s CR7 brand)
- Class 35: Business Consultancy & Branding Covers business endorsements, advertisements, and brand collaborations.
- Class 41: Entertainment & Media Protects use of the name in entertainment, TV shows, public speaking, and social media branding (e.g., Shah Rukh Khan’s SRK Entertainment).
- Class 42: Technology & Software For launching apps, tech products, or digital services.
Celebrities like Ashneer Grover, Kylie Jenner, Taylor Swift and Cristiano Ronaldo strategically file for trademarks under multiple classes to maximize brand protection.
How to Trademark a Celebrity Name?
- Conduct a Trademark Search – Ensure the name is unique and not already registered.
- File a Trademark Application – Submit an application for specific categories (e.g., clothing, entertainment, finance, or consultancy).
- Examination & Approval – The trademark office reviews and approves the application.
- Trademark Registration – Once approved, the name is officially trademarked, giving exclusive rights.
For assistance in trademark filing, feel free to contact us.
Conclusion
For celebrities, entrepreneurs, and influencers, their name is their brand. Trademarking a celebrity name prevents unauthorized use, safeguards reputation and creates business opportunities. Whether you’re an entertainer, influencer or business leader like Ashneer Grover, securing your name as a trademark ensures that only you control how it is used.
If you’re a rising star or public figure, trademarking your name should be your next big step!
