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Christian metal band Demon Hunter has filed a federal trademark lawsuit against Netflix over the name of its hit animated film, KPop Demon Hunters. The Demon Hunter Netflix lawsuit also names Netflix Studios and concert promoter AEG Presents as defendants.
The band alleges that the film’s soundtrack, merchandise and upcoming world tour could confuse consumers. Netflix and AEG had not publicly responded to the allegations as of Wednesday.
Demon Hunter Netflix Lawsuit Claims Trademark Infringement
Hyde Lane, the company representing Demon Hunter, filed the lawsuit Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
The complaint includes claims of trademark infringement, false designation of origin and unfair competition, according to Complex.
Demon Hunter has released music and toured under its name for more than two decades. The Seattle-based group formed in 2000 and released its self-titled debut album in 2002.
The lawsuit argues that this long commercial history gives the band senior rights to the Demon Hunter name. It also alleges that Netflix’s larger audience has pushed the band aside in searches and entertainment marketplaces.
These allegations have not been decided by a court.
Upcoming Concert Tour Intensifies Dispute
Netflix released KPop Demon Hunters in June 2025. Sony Pictures Animation produced the film, which follows the fictional K-pop group HUNTR/X as its members fight supernatural enemies.
The film became Netflix’s most-watched movie and produced a successful soundtrack. Its song “Golden” won major awards, while several soundtrack recordings reached the Billboard Hot 100.
Netflix later expanded the franchise through toys, clothing, games and other merchandise. A global live concert tour was also announced in partnership with AEG Presents.
Demon Hunter argues that the live tour creates a greater possibility of confusion because both parties now operate in concert promotion and recorded music. The complaint describes the commercial overlap as nearly complete.
The band is not simply challenging a movie with a similar title. Its claims focus heavily on the franchise’s expansion into products and services traditionally connected to musical artists.
Mistaken Ticket Purchase Cited as Evidence
The filing includes an email from a customer who allegedly spent $500 on premium tickets to a Demon Hunter concert in Albany, New York.
According to the complaint, the customer believed the tickets were for a child-friendly KPop Demon Hunters event. The person sought a refund after realizing the performance featured the Christian metal band.
Hyde Lane presents that message as evidence of actual consumer confusion. Netflix may challenge whether one reported mistake proves that the two brands are legally confusing.
Trademark cases generally depend on several facts, including similarities between names, the services offered and evidence about consumer perception.
Band Seeks Damages and Court Order
Demon Hunter is requesting a jury trial. The band wants the court to restrict Netflix’s use of the disputed name for music, concerts and merchandise.
The lawsuit also seeks restitution, unspecified financial damages and enhanced damages. No hearing date or trial schedule has been announced.
KPop Demon Hunters remains one of Netflix’s largest entertainment franchises. Netflix said the film and its soundtrack broke global streaming and music records during their first year.
The court will now decide whether the established metal band’s trademark rights extend to Netflix’s animated franchise and live entertainment business.