LeBron James’ Tattoo Drama

Description

This article examines the high-profile legal dispute over who owns the copyright to tattoos, specifically focusing on NBA superstar LeBron James. Tattoo artist Jimmy Hayden sued Take-Two Interactive (maker of NBA 2K), claiming that reproducing LeBron's tattoos in their video game infringes his copyright. However, an Ohio federal jury ruled that Take-Two had an implied license, as part of its agreement to use LeBron's likeness, and that the tattoos’ appearance in-game was minimal amounting to fair use. The case underscores the evolving intersections of copyright, bodily art, and digital representation, as well as the growing importance of explicit licensing in protecting both tattoo artists and athletes.