Sylvanian Families Embroiled in Legal Battle Over TikTok Drama

Sylvanian Families, a popular children's toy brand, is embroiled in a legal battle with a TikTok creator who makes comedic videos featuring the toys in dark and debauched storylines. The Japanese maker of the toys, Epoch Company Ltd, claims the videos are causing irreparable injury to its reputation, while the creator argues her works are parody. The videos have gained millions of followers and likes, and have partnered with major brands for advertising.

Epoch Company Ltd., the Japanese maker of the popular children's toy brand Sylvanian Families, has filed a lawsuit against Thea Von Engelbrechten, the creator behind the TikTok account Sylvanian Drama. The company alleges that the account's videos, which feature dark and debauched storylines using Sylvanian Family figurines, are causing irreparable injury to its reputation [1].

The lawsuit, filed in April 2025, accuses Von Engelbrechten of "creating, publishing, and disseminating online advertising videos" using the dolls without the brand's permission. Epoch claims that the content could confuse potential customers into thinking the videos are officially produced, authorized, or endorsed by the company [1].

Von Engelbrechten started the TikTok account in January 2021 out of boredom and never imagined it would amass millions of fans. The account's videos, which often feature adult themes such as substance use and gang violence, have gained 2.5 million followers on TikTok and 1 million on Instagram. The creator has collaborated with major brands like Netflix, Asos, Sephora, Taco Bell, Burberry, and Marc Jacobs [1].

The TikTok account has not posted a new video since January 2025, as the parties are engaged in settlement talks. The initial pretrial conference is set for August 14 [1].

The lawsuit comes as a surprise to many, including Von Engelbrechten, who initially started the project as a joke inspired by campy TV shows. She has expressed interest in a collaboration with Epoch but has not yet had the opportunity [1].

The case has sparked debate on TikTok, with many users defending Von Engelbrechten and arguing that Epoch should have approached her for an exclusive advertising deal. Some users also believe that the adult content in the videos opens up a new market for Epoch [2].

The legal battle between Sylvanian Families and the TikTok creator is a reminder of the complexities involved in copyright law and the potential impact of user-generated content on a brand's reputation. As the case progresses, it will be interesting to see how the courts interpret the line between parody and copyright infringement.

References:
[1] https://www.tokyoweekender.com/japan-life/news-and-opinion/sylvanian-drama-tiktok-creator-sued-for-copyright-infringement/
[2] https://www.dailydot.com/news/sylvaniandrama-sued/