Gospel Legend Rebecca Malope Slams Detergent Brand for Using Her Picture Without Consent
Legendary gospel singer Rebecca Malope has taken legal action against Procter & Gamble (P&G), the company behind Ariel washing powder, for allegedly using her image without consent.
Rebecca Malope, who is widely respected for her contributions to gospel music, says she is deeply disappointed by the company’s actions.
According to the Zilungise hitmaker, P&G’s agreement to use her image ended in 2022, yet the company has continued to display her pictures on their washing powder packaging.
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Rebecca Malope Pursues Legal Action
According to The South African, Rebecca Malope revealed that she has instructed her lawyers to proceed with legal action against the company.
“I have instructed my lawyers to proceed with legal action against Procter & Gamble (P&G) for the unauthorised use of my image,” she said.
She also disclosed that her legal team sent a letter of demand to P&G last year, to which the company responded by proposing an out-of-court settlement.
Settlement Agreement Falls Apart
Malope stated that after negotiations, both parties agreed on a settlement amount. However, despite her signing the agreement, P&G allegedly refused to countersign.
“I gather now, from my lawyers, that P&G has since refused to sign to counter-sign that same settlement agreement,” she said.
She expressed her frustration, noting that despite the stalled agreement, Ariel washing powder products continue to be sold with her image.
“Which leaves me no other alternative but to proceed with the initial legal action to protect my rights, moreover because on the back of all of this, the market continues to be flooded with P&G products bearing my unauthorised images.”
Rebecca Malope Defends Her Hard-Earned Legacy
The award-winning singer expressed deep hurt and disappointment, stating that she has spent decades building her brand, which is now being exploited without her consent.
“I have worked extremely hard for over 36 years to build, protect, and sustain my brand, and it is unfair and unethical for this brand to unduly benefit from my brand and my image.”
“My brand is a reflection of my passion, integrity, and resilience, and I cannot stand by while it is exploited without my consent.”