Christian metal band Demon Hunter sues Netflix over KPop Demon Hunters

Christian metal band Demon Hunter, via its corporate entity Hyde Lane, has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Netflix, Netflix Studios, and concert promoter AEG Presents over the use of the name "KPop Demon Hunters" for the Oscar-winning animated franchise. The suit, filed August 18 in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, alleges that Netflix's expansion into music, merchandise, and live events creates consumer confusion and "eclipses" the band's brand, which it has built since forming in Seattle in 2000 Source: CNN, El Tiempo.

The dispute

Demon Hunter argues that Netflix's planned world tour, announced in May, brings the franchise into "almost total overlap" with the band's own live entertainment business Source: Euronews. The complaint cites real instances of confusion, including a parent who spent nearly $500 on tickets to a Demon Hunter concert in Albany, New York, mistakenly believing it was a KPop Demon Hunters show for his young daughters Source: CNN, Milenio. The band also notes that a TV producer contacted them seeking an interview with a KPop Demon Hunters composer Source: CNN.

Netflix's response

Netflix has dismissed the claims, stating: "These allegations are unfounded. Netflix has created an Academy Award-winning global phenomenon with KPop Demon Hunters, which has inspired fans worldwide with its powerful music, storytelling, and characters. We are committed to defending ourselves vigorously in this matter" Source: CNN, ABC. Netflix highlights the franchise's success: over 600 million views since its June 2025 debut, making it the most popular original title in company history, and a soundtrack with over 15 billion streams Source: CNN.

What's next

Demon Hunter seeks an injunction to prevent Netflix from using the name for music, merchandise, and live shows, plus unspecified damages and a jury trial Source: Milenio. The lawsuit does not immediately change the film's title, and the court will determine the merits Source: Milenio. Netflix has also announced a sequel for 2029 Source: El Tiempo.