Ex-Cradle of Filth Members Sue Frontman Dani Filth
Six former members of the British metal band Cradle of Filth have initiated legal action against the group’s lead vocalist, Dani Filth, whose real name is Daniel Lloyd Davey. This lawsuit has emerged in the aftermath of the departures of keyboardist Zoe Marie Federoff and guitarist Marek ‘Ashok’ Šmerda, announced in August.
Background of Departures
Federoff and Šmerda cited several reasons for their exit, including “low pay” and “stress.” Šmerda expressed his concerns regarding the band’s ability to support their future. He stated, “It has been years of unprofessional behavior from people above us that led to our decision.”
Additionally, he criticized the band’s collaboration with Ed Sheeran, calling it “foolish clown antics.”
Details of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit was filed in Arizona and includes several allegations against Dani Filth and the band. Among the plaintiffs are:
- Paul Allender – Guitarist from 1992 to 1995 and 1999 to 2014
- Richard Shaw – Guitarist from 2014 to 2022
- Lindsay Matheson – Keyboardist from 2013 to 2020
- Sasha Baxter – Featured in some of the band’s videos
The complaints in the lawsuit encompass:
- Copyright infringement
- Misappropriation of likenesses for merchandise
- Defamation
- Unpaid royalties for live performances and recordings
- Unauthorized use of copyright materials
Dani Filth’s Response
As of now, Dani Filth has not publicly addressed the lawsuit. After the departures of Federoff and Šmerda, he shared his perspective through social media. He posted screenshots of a conversation between Šmerda and the band’s manager, Dez Fafara.
Filth described the contracts signed by the departing members as rough drafts, completed in haste to facilitate an upcoming tour. He also suggested that personal issues between Federoff and Šmerda during a South American tour negatively impacted the band.
Final Statements from Dani Filth
In a concluding statement made in September, Filth acknowledged the former members’ contributions and wished them well. He refuted the claims of theft and exploitation made against him, stating, “I won’t let unfounded slander define this band or diminish the work we’ve put into it.”
He emphasized the band’s commitment to delivering quality performances and nurturing a supportive environment for current and future musicians.
