The TikToker behind the viral Apple dance has taken legal action against Roblox. Kelley Heyer's choreography, inspired by Charli XCX's hit song of the same name, appeared in TikTok videos by the likes of Kylie Jenner, actress Daisy Edgar-Jones and even the singer herself. Ms Heyer's legal team claims Roblox made $123,000 (£93,000) from selling the moves as an "emote" - a celebratory animation used by players in the game - without her permission. Roblox tells BBC Newsbeat it takes intellectual property "very seriously" and is confident it hasn't done anything wrong. An estimated 80 million people play Roblox every day and it has more monthly users than the Nintendo Switch and Sony PlayStation combined. Roblox made a deal with Charli XCX last year to use her music and likeness as part of an in-game concert within Dress to Impress - one of the most popular experiences on the platform. Ms Heyer was reportedly in talks with Roblox to license the Apple dance but her lawyer tells Newsbeat Roblox used it without a "signed agreement". "Kelley is an independent creator who should be compensated fairly for her work and we saw no other option than to file suit to prove that," says Miki Anzai, who's representing Ms Heyer. "We remain willing and open to settle and hope to come to a peaceful agreement." Ms Heyerpreviously told Newsbeatabout kicking off the trend when she debuted some moves for the "unappreciated" track from Charli XCX's award-winning album, Brat. At the time she said she had seen "large brands or huge creators" capitalising on the trend without crediting her. "And that sort of bums me out a little bit," she said. "That could have been a really good opportunity, really good exposure for me." A Roblox spokesperson said: "As a platform powered by a community of creators, Roblox takes the protection of intellectual property very seriously and is committed to protecting intellectual property rights of independent developers and creators to brands and artists both on and off the platform," a spokesperson says. "Roblox is confident in its position and the propriety of its dealings in this matter and looks forward to responding in court." Newsbeat has contacted Ms Heyer for further comment. Listen to Newsbeatliveat 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen backhere.
Viral Apple dance creator sues Roblox over its use in the game
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"TikTok Creator Sues Roblox Over Unauthorized Use of Viral Dance"
Bbc News
8.1
TruthLens AI Summary
Kelley Heyer, the TikTok creator of the viral Apple dance, has filed a lawsuit against the gaming platform Roblox for allegedly using her choreography without permission. The dance, which gained immense popularity through various TikTok videos featuring celebrities like Kylie Jenner and actress Daisy Edgar-Jones, is at the center of this legal dispute. Heyer's legal team claims that Roblox profited approximately $123,000 (£93,000) by selling the dance as an 'emote' within the game, a feature that allows players to express themselves during gameplay. Roblox, however, maintains that it takes intellectual property rights seriously and believes it has acted within legal bounds regarding this matter. The platform has a vast user base, with around 80 million daily players, and has previously secured deals with artists, including Charli XCX, to incorporate their music into its game environments.
The situation escalated as Heyer, who was reportedly in discussions to license her dance to Roblox, argues that the platform proceeded to use her choreography without a formal agreement. Her attorney, Miki Anzai, emphasized the importance of fair compensation for independent creators like Heyer, stating that filing the lawsuit was deemed necessary to uphold her rights. Heyer has expressed her disappointment over not receiving credit for her work, particularly as larger brands and creators have capitalized on the trend. While Roblox remains confident in its position and looks forward to addressing the lawsuit in court, Heyer and her legal team have indicated their willingness to settle the matter amicably. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the rights of creators in the digital space and how platforms engage with user-generated content.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The legal dispute between TikToker Kelley Heyer and Roblox over the unauthorized use of her viral "Apple dance" choreography highlights growing tensions between independent creators and large platforms regarding intellectual property rights. The case underscores the challenges of crediting and compensating creators in the digital age, where viral content can be easily monetized by third parties without proper licensing.
Legal and Ethical Implications
The lawsuit raises questions about Roblox's adherence to intellectual property laws, especially given its massive user base and revenue streams. While Roblox claims it takes IP rights seriously, the allegation that it profited from Heyer's work without a signed agreement suggests a potential oversight in its content moderation policies. The platform's prior deal with Charli XCX for music licensing contrasts with its handling of Heyer's choreography, indicating inconsistent practices.
Creator Economy and Compensation
Heyer's case reflects broader frustrations among independent creators whose work is often co-opted by larger entities without fair compensation. Her lawyer’s statement emphasizes the demand for equitable treatment, echoing ongoing debates about creator rights in platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and gaming ecosystems. The mention of "large brands or huge creators" capitalizing on trends without credit resonates with wider criticisms of systemic exploitation in digital content creation.
Platform Accountability and Public Perception
Roblox’s response—asserting confidence in its compliance—may aim to mitigate reputational damage, but the lawsuit could still influence user and creator trust. The platform’s reliance on community-generated content makes this a high-stakes issue, as negative publicity might deter future collaborations or spark scrutiny from regulators.
Manipulation and Media Narrative
The article frames the dispute as a David-vs-Goliath scenario, aligning with narratives that favor underdog creators against corporate giants. While the facts presented appear factual, the emphasis on Heyer’s missed opportunities and emotional response ("That sort of bums me out") could subtly sway reader sympathy. There’s no overt evidence of manipulation, but the selective focus on Heyer’s perspective over Roblox’s internal policies might narrow the discourse.
Economic and Industry Impact
The outcome could set a precedent for how gaming and social media platforms handle user-generated content, potentially leading to stricter licensing protocols. While the immediate financial impact on Roblox is minimal ($123,000 is a fraction of its revenue), a loss in court might prompt broader changes in its business model. The story primarily appeals to creators, legal experts, and digital rights advocates, with limited direct implications for politics or global markets.
AI and Content Creation
The article’s tone is neutral and fact-driven, lacking overt signs of AI-generated bias. However, if AI were involved, it might amplify the emotional undertones (e.g., Heyer’s disappointment) to engage readers. No geopolitical or hidden agendas are apparent; the focus remains on IP rights within the creator economy.
Reliability Assessment
The BBC’s reporting lends credibility, and the inclusion of statements from both parties balances the narrative. The lack of sensationalism and reliance on documented claims (e.g., the $123,000 figure) suggest the article is trustworthy. However, readers should remain critical of potential omissions, such as Roblox’s detailed IP policies or precedents in similar cases.