American social media star and makeup guru Jeffree Star indirectly called out Filipino YouTuber Michelle Dy after the latter allegedly copied his creative content.
On July 31, Star took to Instagram to lash out at an unnamed vlogger who he claimed was “not known in America” for stealing his “Jeffree Star Approved” content and stamp. He said that his concept and stamp are trademarked in the USA.
“Jeffree Star Approved” is a concept created by Star wherein he gives positive feedbacks to different cosmetic products.
“I know I didn’t invent the word ‘approved,’ but girl, that’s been my thing for two years now. It’s trademarked, it’s on merch, don’t try me,” says Star.
lol Jeffree Star literally called @michelle_dy out for copying his content and idea, and that's the tea good morning. pic.twitter.com/aOabQXdD0r
— Carlo (@WhatsACarlo) July 31, 2018
Though the American vlogger did not mention anyone specific in his videos, many netizens believed that he was referring to Filipino YouTuber Michelle Dy since he left a comment on one of the latter’s YouTube videos.
“You’re full of complete [explicit]. Stealing my “Approved” series and trademarked title is pathetic. But that’s what boring unoriginal people do. My lawyer will reach out to you shortly. “Jeffree Star Approved” is copyrighted in America,” Star’s comment reads.
honey, i hear the kettle boiling! it's time for tea! Is Michelle Dy "Jeffree Star Approved?" don't think so… can't relate ?
(photo grabbed from facebook) pic.twitter.com/OJfHLWmznd
— esther sunday (@indaystarirayy) July 31, 2018
According to the US Copyright Infringement Law, anyone who will violate the said law can face a hefty fine worth $200 to $150,000 for each infringed work. The Court can also impound the illegal works, and the infringer can also face imprisonment.
Dy recently started her “MD Approved” YouTube series wherein, just like Star, she would review cosmetic products and tell her viewers if it is worth the money they paid for.
Dy has since owned up to the accusations and apologized to Star for the incident. She has also taken down the ‘copied’ videos. The Filipino vlogger issued a statement on her Twitter account.
???♥️ pic.twitter.com/AWR5ylitji
— Michelle Dy (@michelle_dy) July 31, 2018
Star has not released any further statements since.
It came from his mouth, the word ‘approve’ is not patented by him. There’s so many things like FDA Approved or BFD Approved. The fact that he INSPIRED someone, he could have acted more graciously. What an ugly person, this Star. Good thing the lady was humble.