Extreme metal band Cradle of Filth is facing a lawsuit from five former members, including keyboardist/backing singer Zoë M. Federoff and her husband, guitarist Marek "Ashok" Šmerda. The couple, along with three other former band members, are suing lead singer Dani Filth and the band in federal court in Arizona, alleging they haven't been compensated for the use of their names and likenesses on merchandise. The suit, filed on September 30 and recently amended on November 20, includes charges of copyright infringement, misappropriation of likeness, defamation, and unjust enrichment. The former band members claim they never signed an agreement allowing the band or associated businesses to use them in merchandising and that they were not adequately compensated. They are seeking monetary damages. Dani Filth and the companies mentioned in the lawsuit have yet to make a public statement. This legal battle comes after the band's keyboardist and guitarist exited in August, describing management as "dishonest" and "manipulative" and claiming low pay. The lawsuit highlights a potential issue within the band's management and compensation practices, sparking discussions about the rights of band members and the ethical use of their names and likenesses.
