Posada et al v. Parker Promotions et al, No. 4:22-cv-00121-CDL (M.D. Ga. Aug. 10, 2022):

Skinner et al v. The Cave Entertainment, Inc. et al, No. 1:22-cv-03162-ELR (N.D. Ga. Aug. 10, 2022):

Killings et al v. Galardi South Enterprises Consulting, Inc. et al, No. 1:22-cv-03163-WMR (N.D. Ga. Aug. 10, 2022)

Pinder et al v. Club Wax, LLC et al, No. 1:22-cv-03164-JPB (N.D. Ga. Aug. 10, 2022)

A number of professional models, including a “Baywatch” actress and several Playboy Playmates, allege that four Georgia strip clubs took photos from their social media accounts without their knowledge and then used those images to promote the clubs in violation of the Lanham Act. Four separate (but largely identical) lawsuits have been filed by the various models, all represented by the New York-based Casas Law Firm.

According to the lawsuits, the models all have large social media followings and are regularly compensated to endorse brands and products. When these clubs used their images without their consent, the plaintiffs alleged that clubs created the false impression that the models are affiliated with these clubs, thus hurting their brands. They also say they were never compensated for the unauthorized advertisements.

The plaintiffs are seeking both actual and punitive damages, as well as permanently enjoining the clubs’ owners from using their images to promote their businesses. One lawsuit was filed in the Middle District of Georgia against Parker Promotions (d/b/a Club Fetish). Similar lawsuits have been filed in the Northern District of Georgia against The Cave nightclub in Decatur, as well as Club Wax and the Gold Rush, both in Atlanta. The clubs’ respective owners also are named as defendants.