Jessica Simpson sued in Jefferson Parish for OK! Magazine cover photo

GRETNA – A celebrity singer and actor is being sued by the parents of a child who she allegedly posed for pictures without their permission.

Christopher Wayne Hurst and Tracy Gilbert Gregory, individually and on behalf of their minor son, filed suit against American Media Inc., Wireimage, Getty Images Inc. and Jessica Simpson in the 24th Judicial District Court on April 11.

Hurst claims when Simpson appeared for a promotional event for her line of clothing at Dillard’s Department Store in Metairie that she posed with photos with his daughter, even though he did not grant permission.

The plaintiffs allege they were required to purchase $50 worth of merchandise to be allowed to get an autograph from Simpson. Hurst asserts that after he purchased the requisite amount of goods he waited in line with his baby daughter in his arms until they met Simpson.

The plaintiffs alleges that a photographer approached them about a photo with Simpson which they declined, but when a woman in line behind them said she would take a cell phone photo and send it to them Hurst relented.

Hurst claims that when he handed his daughter over to Simpson for the photo another photographer from Wireimage took a photo of them and later put it on the cover of OK! Magazine without his permission.

The defendant is accused of misappropriation of image for defendants’ use or benefit, false light defamation and negligent infliction of emotional distress.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for damage to plaintiffs’ reputation in the community, lost income and emotional distress.

The plaintiffs are represented by Michael B. North of New Orleans-based Preis & Roy.

The case has been assigned to Division B Judge Cornelius E. Regan.

Case no. 725-846