 "Jackie Shroff")
Bollywood actor Jackie Shroff has taken legal action by approaching the Delhi High Court to safeguard his names, personality, and restrict unauthorised use of his nickname ‘Bhidu’.
According to a Bar and Bench report, Jackie has filed a lawsuit against various entities for employing his name, photographs, voice, and nickname without his consent. The case has been scheduled for hearing on May 14, and the court is expected to deliberate on the possibility of issuing an interim order following the session.
Jackie's legal representatives informed the court about instances where his images were used in offensive memes and his voice was misappropriated for similar purposes. Additionally, concerns were raised about the creation of pornographic material exploiting Shroff’s persona.
This legal recourse echoes a similar move by Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor last year, wherein he sought protection for his personality rights, culminating in a favourable verdict in January this year. Kapoor's victory ensured protection of his name, voice, image, likeness, manner of speaking, gestures, and even his iconic ‘jhakaas’ catchphrase.
In a recent interview with Variety, Kapoor lauded the decision as forward-thinking, not only benefiting him but also setting a precedent for other actors, especially in light of advancing AI technology.
“I think [the decision] is very progressive and great not only for me but for other actors also … Because of the way AI technology is evolving every day. It’s not only for me. Today I’m there to protect myself, but when I’m not there, the family should have the right to protect my [personality] and gain from it in future," he said.
“It’s only a matter of time before you’ll be able to recreate any dead person at any age with the voice and the mannerisms, so I want to have some control," he added.
Meanwhile, Jackie Shroff is yet to issue any statement to the media or his followers regarding his legal action.
