50 Cent, the renowned rapper and entrepreneur, isn’t taking copyright infringement lightly as he slaps a $5 million lawsuit on the celebrity jeweler, TraxNYC, for allegedly using his likeness to peddle fake chains. The case sprang from a series of TikTok videos that seemed to imply the rapper’s endorsement.
50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, has built an empire with his multifaceted career in music, film, and business. Thus, when TraxNYC used images of the “In Da Club” artist donning their jewelry, it understandably struck a nerve. TraxNYC posted several social media updates including pictures of 50 adorned in their bling and tagged him, thereby hinting at his association with their products.
In a particularly audacious video, TraxNYC brazenly addressed 50 Cent, saying: “We just jocked your style. I know you watch my videos and now I’m watching your shit and jocking your shit, just like you jocked my shit.” Naturally, this didn’t sit well with 50.
Before taking legal action, Jackson made it clear via social media that such unauthorized use of his likeness was unacceptable. He warned the jeweler: “This was a bad idea, you will regret doing this, I promise.”
On his preferred platform, Instagram, Jackson further expressed his stance by posting: “Every now and then someone does something like this. I don’t know why but I do know I’m a need that by Monday.” Clearly indicating his determination to seek justice.
In an attempt to quell the situation, TraxNYC reached out publicly and implored 50 Cent to drop the lawsuit, invoking the theme of redemption. “Yo, 50, a cross is meant for forgiveness, redemption, forgiveness of sins. Forgive, forget, let it go, brother,” TraxNYC pleaded.
However, 50, known for his no-nonsense attitude, replied dismissively: “Let me think about it. Nah you tried to play with me! You know the vibes by Monday.” His response underscored his seriousness in the matter.
To further highlight his grievances, 50 posted a picture of the chains in question and commented: “This fool took my custom piece copied it, then posted this 7 hours ago using my likeness to sell them. He must don’t know how this works, if he talks to a lawyer they would tell him this is not good.”
50 Cent isn’t new to legal disputes; his tussle with former G-Unit member Young Buck is recent proof of his commitment to protecting his image and brand.
In the world of high-profile celebrities, protecting personal brand is paramount. 50 Cent’s decisive move against TraxNYC is a stark reminder of his resolve to safeguard his image and the lengths he’s willing to go to maintain his brand integrity.
