The former America’s Got Talent contestant started writing a column called Confessions of a Showgirl in the Las Vegas Weekly back in 2014, reflecting on her time as a performer in the entertainment world.
The column has since been developed into a podcast, plus a live show featuring pop and jazz music, and Wade’s trademark covers a range of things including theatrical productions, TV and live stage performances.
Regarding the release of Swift’s album, The Life of a Showgirl, the complaint reads: “They did not do so quietly.
“Within weeks, the designation was affixed to consumer goods, stamped on to labels, tags, and packaging, and deployed as a source identifier across retail channels – all directed at the same audience Plaintiff had spent years cultivating.”
The lawsuit alleges that when the Anti-Hero singer applied to register the album title, the application was denied by the US Patent and Trademark Office.
It said it was declined because it was confusingly similar to the previous mark, with both names sharing the key “of a Showgirl” phrase.
The complaint also notes that they are both used in the world of musical and theatrical performances, which could lead audiences to believe they have a connection.
Wade has accused Swift of ignoring the trademark, arguing that consumers believe she has copied the pop star, which has undermined her brand.
The complaint adds that the “continued erosion of that mark threatens the entirety of” Wade’s brand.
Swift could end up buying out Wade’s claim to the name or trying to fight the case in court.
Typically, existing trademarks take precedence over new bids.
Swift is yet to comment on the lawsuit.
