A Long-Awaited Victory
In a landmark legal win, Atlanta rap legend T.I. (Clifford Harris) and his wife, singer-songwriter Tiny (Tameka Harris), have been awarded $71 million in damages following a federal jury’s ruling in their favor. This decision comes after claims that toy manufacturer MGA Entertainment had unlawfully modeled its popular L.O.L. Surprise! dolls on the couple’s R&B group, OMG Girlz.
The lawsuit, which has been in motion for several years, was initiated by the OMG Girlz — a group formed by T.I. and Tiny more than a decade ago. They argued that the dolls too closely resembled the group’s distinct style and appearance. For the couple, the verdict is a long-awaited acknowledgment of their efforts to safeguard their creative legacy.
The OMG Girlz’ Legacy
Formed in 2009, the OMG Girlz originally consisted of Zonnique Pullins (T.I. and Tiny’s daughter), Bahja Rodriguez, and Breaunna Womack. Known for their bold, colorful fashion and high-energy performances, the group was active until 2015, recently reuniting for the “Queens of R&B” tour alongside Xscape and SWV.
T.I. and Tiny were instrumental in crafting the group’s image and sound, shaping the OMG Girlz’ influence on R&B and pop culture. The lawsuit claimed that MGA’s dolls bore striking resemblances to the group members, down to specific hairstyles and outfits from past performances.
A Battle Over Likeness
The legal battle began four years ago when the Harrises filed suit, accusing MGA Entertainment of copying the OMG Girlz’ likeness for its doll line, infringing on their intellectual property rights. During the three-week trial in Orange County, California, jurors reviewed evidence showing the similarities between several L.O.L. Surprise! dolls and the OMG Girlz. Group members even testified, recounting moments when fans mistook the dolls for representations of them.
MGA defended itself by arguing that any resemblance was coincidental and that the OMG Girlz lacked sufficient public recognition to warrant such claims. The company also argued that no financial harm was caused by the dolls.
Ultimately, the jury ruled in favor of T.I. and Tiny. Tiny expressed her heartfelt gratitude in an Instagram post, thanking the jurors for defending their artistic rights.
MGA Entertainment’s Legal Troubles
This isn’t the first time MGA Entertainment has faced a major lawsuit. The company was previously involved in a high-profile legal battle with Mattel over its Bratz dolls, another line with a similar aesthetic.
While MGA has generated billions from the L.O.L. Surprise! dolls, this latest setback could have lasting effects. The company still has the option to appeal the ruling.
Victory Amid Personal Struggles
Despite the legal win, T.I. and Tiny are navigating personal controversies. Earlier this year, they were sued by a woman who accused them of drugging and sexually assaulting her in 2005. While that case was dismissed, the plaintiff has expressed plans to refile, and the couple faces similar allegations from others.
Nonetheless, the Harrises remain dedicated to protecting their creative legacy. T.I., who has evolved from street rapper to entrepreneur and activist, continues to be a vocal advocate for civil rights. Tiny, a Grammy-winning member of Xscape, remains influential in the music industry and a pillar of support for her family.
Looking Ahead
This ruling raises important questions about artists’ rights to safeguard their likenesses and intellectual property in an era where branding is easily commodified. For T.I. and Tiny, the $71 million award is more than just financial—it’s a powerful statement about the importance of creative control and ownership.
Whether MGA chooses to appeal or not, this case could set a precedent for future legal battles involving celebrity likeness in the toy industry. For now, the Harris family can savor their victory and continue building their legacy in music and business.
