James Cameron, Disney Sued Over Unauthorized Use of Actress’ Likeness

James Cameron and Disney are facing a lawsuit over the alleged unauthorized use of an actress’ likeness during the production of the 2009 film Avatar.

Actor Q’orianka Kilcher has filed a lawsuit against James Cameron and Disney, claiming that the core character of Neytiri in Avatar was based on her likeness without her consent. Kilcher alleges that Cameron instructed his design team to use her likeness from a photograph taken during the production of The New World for the character of Neytiri. Despite meeting Cameron at a charity event and receiving a sketch inspired by her, Kilcher states she never consented to the use of her likeness in Avatar or related products.

James Cameron, the director of Avatar, identified Kilcher as the source of inspiration for Neytiri in an interview last year, leading Kilcher to realize the extent of her likeness being used without permission. Cameron and Disney have not yet responded to the allegations. The original Avatar movie remains the highest-grossing film of all time, with a worldwide gross nearing $3 billion.