Legendary gospel singer Rebecca Malope has expressed deep disappointment over what she calls the unauthorized use of her image by Procter & Gamble (P&G), the company behind the popular Ariel washing powder.P&G Accused of Misusing Malope’s Image
Malope, a celebrated gospel icon, alleges that P&G has continued to use her image on Ariel washing powder packaging without her consent or compensation.
According to Malope, she had a contractual agreement with the company to use her image, but that contract ended in 2022. However, despite the agreement expiring, the company allegedly continued to use her likeness for more than two years after the fact.Legal Action Initiated
The Zilungise hitmaker has since instructed her lawyers to take legal action against P&G.“I have instructed my lawyers to proceed with legal action against Procter & Gamble (P&G) for the unauthorized use of my image,” Malope said in a statement.
She further revealed that her legal team had sent a letter of demand to P&G in 2023, insisting that the company stop using her image and compensate her accordingly.
In response, P&G proposed an out-of-court settlement—a move that initially seemed promising. However, despite reaching a mutually agreed settlement amount, Malope claims that P&G ultimately refused to sign the agreement.“I gather now, from my lawyers, that P&G has since refused to counter-sign that same settlement agreement,” Malope explained.
With no alternative left, she says she is now proceeding with full legal action to protect her image rights.
Rebecca Malope
Market Still Flooded with Unauthorized Products
One of Malope’s biggest concerns is that Ariel washing powder products featuring her image continue to be widely available in stores.
“The market continues to be flooded with P&G products bearing my unauthorized images,” she lamented.P&G Yet to Respond
Despite repeated attempts to reach out to P&G, Malope says she has received no official response from the company regarding the issue.
The publication emailed P&G last week, but as of the time of publishing, no response had been received.
Malope’s Longstanding Partnership with Ariel
Malope’s association with Ariel washing powder dates back to 2016, when she was unveiled as a brand ambassador during P&G’s Women’s Month celebration.
At the time, Ariel launched a new washing powder that aimed to recognize and celebrate South African women for their everyday sacrifices in building a better future.However, the continued use of her image long after the contract expired has left Malope feeling betrayed and exploited.
What Happens Next?
With legal action now in motion, it remains to be seen how P&G will respond to Malope’s claims.
Legal experts say intellectual property disputes involving public figures can be complex and drawn-out, but Malope appears determined to fight for her rights.
For now, fans of the gospel star are rallying behind her, expressing their support and outrage over the alleged exploitation of her brand.
As the case unfolds, many will be watching to see whether P&G will take responsibility for its actions or if the matter will escalate into a full-fledged court battle.