BBC News on Madonna sued for ‘Hollywood’ pose
A French photographer’s son is suing Madonna, saying she copied his late father’s images in a set of videos for her song Hollywood.
The video shows the star leaning over a table, staring round a mirror and straddling a television set.
Samuel Bourdin says they are “strikingly similar” to pictures taken by Guy Bourdin from the 1950s to 1980s. The claim, filed in the US, accuses Madonna of copyright infringement over at least 11 Bourdin works.
It does not set out how much is being sought in damages from the star and companies and individuals involved in the video’s production.
“Factors such as composition, background, wardrobe, lighting, narrative, camera angle, decor and objects depicted are strikingly similar,” the lawsuit claims. Guy Bourdin died in 1991.
With record sales topping 130 million and more UK top 10 hits than The Beatles and the Rolling Stones put together, Madonna is the most successful female performer in history.
Her ability to follow the latest trends and adapt her style has often been credited with preserving her appeal.
Some critics say her attitude and image have always been more important than her music.
Source: BBC News