David LaChapelle, a well-known fashion and celeb photographer, is suing Rihanna for ripping off his work and ideas in her mega-popular “S&M” music video. LaChapelle claims in the ambitious lawsuit that Rihanna, (Robyn Rihanna Fenty), told director Melina Matsoukas to produce a “LaChapelle-esque music video,” and that storyboards for the video “consisted of or contained prints” of his works.
LaChapelle is also suing producer Black Dog Films and UMG Recordings which owns Def Jam, Rihanna’s label. What prompted LaChapelle to sue was his greed and jealousy when Rihanna‘s “S&M” music video went viral back in January. Rihanna and her co-defendants then submitted a motion to dismiss the charges.
However, in a 32-page order, U.S. District Judge Shira Scheind notes key points of similarities between the music video’s scenes and a key photograph. The judge has ordered a trial based on the evidence in both properties and Rihanna will have to testify.
For the judge to dismiss Rihanna’s motion to dismiss means that there is real evidence that LaChapelle was ripped off.
Image credit to 247Paps.tv/WENN.com
