AT&T Commercial Allegedly Rips Off NYC Tattoo Artist’s Persona

AT&T and ad agency BBDO Worldwide Inc. infringe New York tattoo artist Jonathan Shaw’s publicity rights by using his persona without permission in a commercial, according to an Aug. 9 complaint.

“The Commercial conveys to consumers the false impression that Jonathan Shaw consented to the use of his persona and participated in the promotion of AT&T’s services,” the complaint filed in the Southern District of New York says.

According to the complaint, Shaw is “widely recognized as the father of the modern tattoo movement.” Shaw’s celebrity clients include Johnny Depp, Marilyn Manson, Kate Moss, the Cure, and Tupac Shakur. He ...