Metal band Demon Hunter files lawsuit against Netflix over KPop Demon Hunters name clash

American Christian metal band Demon Hunter, formed by the Clark brothers, has filed a trademark lawsuit against Netflix over the streamer's popular animated film, KPop Demon Hunters.

According to the BBC, the lawsuit was filed on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, in the Central District of California. It was filed by Hyde Lane, the metal band's company, against Netflix Studios and live promoter AEG. They claimed that the similar name has resulted in financial loss due to confusion among consumers.

The complaint contained email evidence from a person who apparently spent $500 for top-tier tickets to the metal band's concert in Albany, New York. The ticket buyer apparently thought that it was meant to be a kid-friendly K-pop show. Thereafter, the ticket buyer asked for a refund/credit, revealing that if they don't get it, they will not be able to buy tickets to the K-Pop Demon Hunters show.

Here's more about the show.

Demon Hunter sues Netflix for trademark infringement over KPop Demon Hunters title

The Christian metal band was formed in the 2000s by the Clark brothers, Don and Ryan. At present, among the founding members, only Ryan remains associated with the band, as Don left in 2009. Formed in Seattle, Washington, the band sold over 600,000 albums. Apart from Ryan, the current members of the band are Jon Dunn, Tim Watts, Jeremiah Scott, and Patrick Judge. They are known for their heavy melodic metalcore and groove metal tracks.

However, the metal band has found itself in a complex situation since the release of Netflix's animated fantasy film, KPop Demon Hunters in 2025. According to the viewers, the similar titles have left fans of both the band and film in confusion.

Hyde Lane, the band's company, has filed a trademark lawsuit against the streaming giant, Netflix. According to Complex, in the lawsuit filed on August 18, 2026, Hyde Lane has accused the streaming giant of trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false designation of origin.

At the centre of the case is Netflix's film, its soundtrack album, and merchandise. Netflix has applied for multiple trademark applications for merchandise for its upcoming global live concert in partnership with AEG.

According to the complaint, this overlaps with the goods and services provided by Hyde Lane under the Demon Hunter title. It further stated that the Netflix animated film name is similar to metal bands' established trademarks, leading to consumer confusion. In one instance, a television producer contacted the band's management thinking they were related to the Netflix film. Also, viewers often mistakenly tag the metal band's social media page while discussing the film.

The band's company had registered Demon Hunter as a trademark for merchandise and recorded music in 2022. They have also applied for a trademark in live music.

The complaint further reveals that confusion occurs both ways. According to Complex, Hyde Lane is now demanding a jury trial to restore its 'rightful interest' in the trademark of the metal band's name. Additionally, they have also asked the court to prevent Netflix from using the animated film's title for the show, merchandise, and music. The company has also asked for restitution and treble damages from the streaming giant.

The film became the most-watched original title on Netflix. It won several accolades, including the Oscars and Golden Globes. The streaming platform is also working on its sequel and other follow-up projects.

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