Slovak photographer Katarína Benzová is suing Guns' Roses. (source: Facebook/Katarína Benzová)
Slovak photographer Katarína Benzová, renowned for her work with Guns N’ Roses, has embarked on legal battles against the iconic rock band, delving into both copyright disputes and allegations of sexual harassment, writes the Slovak daily Pravda.
In her lawsuit, filed just over a week ago, Benzová primarily contends with the band’s alleged infringement of her copyright, asserting that they falsely declared ownership of a substantial portion of her photographic portfolio. According to the Rolling Stone music magazine, Benzová filed the lawsuit on November 14, accusing the band and the band’s Team Brazil management of commercially exploiting at least 145 of her photographs without her permission.
Benzová, who had been working as a freelancer for Guns N’ Roses, asserts that during her formal contract period of 18 weeks in the 2010-2022 period, she did not need to authorise or approve any commercialization of her photos as they fell under the category of ‘work for hire.’ However, she claims ownership of the photos taken during the rest of her time without a contract.
The lawsuit also alleges that the defendants falsely claimed ownership of her work, leading to widespread violations of third-party rights and the unauthorised use of her photographs across various media.
Alleged toxic environment
However, the legal fracas has also brought to light the alleged toxic work environment and accusations of sexual harassment the photographer claims to have endured from the band’s manager, Fernando Lebeis.
The legal document outlines alleged unwanted advances, unsolicited messages, and forced kissing by Lebeis. Benzová’s lawsuit states that Lebeis exhibited animosity and aggression towards her after she rebuffed his advances.
This legal saga comes amid a broader societal conversation about the prevalence of sexual misconduct within the music industry. In recent years, the #MeToo movement has prompted increased scrutiny of such allegations, prompting individuals to come forward with their experiences.
The controversy surrounding Guns N’ Roses doesn’t end with Benzová’s legal action. Another serious accusation has emerged, this time against the band’s frontman, Axl Rose. Former model Sheila Kennedy accused Rose of sexually assaulting her in a New York hotel room in 1989.
