Prince’s Estate Resolves Trademark Dispute with Apollonia
Apollonia, known legally as Patricia Kotero, has reached a confidential settlement with the estate of Prince, concluding her trademark dispute. The case centered on her right to use the name given to her by Prince during their collaboration in the 1984 film Purple Rain.
Settlement Overview
The parties involved filed a joint notice of dismissal, which was submitted two days before a scheduled hearing regarding the estate’s motion to dismiss. Details of the settlement remain confidential, but both sides agreed to bear their own legal fees.
Background of the Dispute
Kotero’s lawsuit, filed in August, alleged that the Prince estate aimed to control her name, claiming it could lead to trademark infringement claims against her. She argued that prior to Prince’s death from a fentanyl overdose in April 2016 at the age of 57, he never sought to trademark her name. This led her to believe the estate’s actions were unjust.
- The estate took control of the Apollonia trademark in June 2022.
- Kotero highlighted that Prince had encouraged her to perform under the name during a personal meeting in February 2016.
Responses from the Estate
The Prince estate expressed its obligation to protect the late musician’s assets and legacy while maintaining a desire for amicable relations. They indicated previous attempts to resolve the matter privately included offers for Kotero to perform at Paisley Park.
Legal Exchange
Kotero claimed in court filings that the estate’s actions were contrary to Prince’s wishes. The estate countered that they never threatened her with legal action over the name and insisted that any disputes regarding ownership should be settled through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Significance of Apollonia’s Name
Kotero’s iconic rise to fame came through her role in Purple Rain. She continued to build her career, releasing music like the hit “Sex Shooter” and appearing in series such as Falcon Crest, all under the name Apollonia. Her relationship with Prince and the character’s prominence highlight the cultural significance tied to her name.
Conclusion
The resolution of this trademark dispute underscores the efforts to honor Prince’s legacy while recognizing Kotero’s contributions to his works. As both parties move forward, the settlement represents a step toward healing and collaboration.
