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High Court Rules Katie Taylor's Trademark Valid, No Infringement

3/11/2026

48 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The High Court ruled that Katie Taylor's "Katie Perry" trademark, registered in 2007, does not infringe Katy Perry's brand.
The court emphasized Taylor was unaware of the singer when she registered the trademark.
The ruling overturned a previous appeal decision and highlighted that Perry's merchandise had engaged in trademark infringement.
The case will return to the Full Federal Court to address additional issues raised by Katy Perry.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Supreme Court's 2007 ruling in *Matal v. Tam* affirmed that trademarks are protected under the First Amendment, echoing the 1879 Trade-Mark Cases, which limited Congress's power over trademarks. This decision, involving the Asian-American band The Slants, underscores the ongoing tension between free expression and trademark law, influencing future cases like Katie Taylor's recent trademark victory.

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Story summary

The High Court ruled that Katie Taylor's "Katie Perry" trademark, registered in 2007, does not infringe Katy Perry's brand.
The court emphasized Taylor was unaware of the singer when she registered the trademark.
The ruling overturned a previous appeal decision and highlighted that Perry's merchandise had engaged in trademark infringement.
The case will return to the Full Federal Court to address additional issues raised by Katy Perry.

1 / 2