Taylor Swift sued over 'Life of a Showgirl' trademark

Las Vegas showgirl alleges Swift's album infringes on her 'Confessions of a Showgirl' act

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:07am

A Las Vegas showgirl who performs a live act called 'Confessions of a Showgirl' is suing Taylor Swift for copyright infringement. Maren Wade claims Swift's 2025 concept album 'Life of a Showgirl' impinges on a brand she began building as a Las Vegas performer.

Why it matters

This lawsuit highlights the challenges artists face in protecting their intellectual property, especially when it comes to concepts and titles that may seem similar. The case could set a precedent for how courts view trademark infringement claims between musicians and performers.

The details

Maren Wade, a Las Vegas-based showgirl, has filed a lawsuit against Taylor Swift alleging that the pop star's 2025 album 'Life of a Showgirl' infringes on the trademark and brand she has built around her own live performance act called 'Confessions of a Showgirl'. Wade claims she has been performing and promoting her 'Confessions of a Showgirl' show in Las Vegas since 2018.

  • Maren Wade began performing her 'Confessions of a Showgirl' act in Las Vegas in 2018.
  • Taylor Swift released her 'Life of a Showgirl' album in 2025.

The players

Maren Wade

A Las Vegas-based showgirl who performs a live act called 'Confessions of a Showgirl'.

Taylor Swift

A popular American singer-songwriter who released the album 'Life of a Showgirl' in 2025.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I've worked hard to build my 'Confessions of a Showgirl' brand and reputation in Las Vegas. I can't just let someone like Taylor Swift come in and use a nearly identical title for her album.”

— Maren Wade, Showgirl

What’s next

The lawsuit is currently in the early stages, and a judge will need to determine if there is sufficient evidence of trademark infringement to proceed with the case.

The takeaway

This case highlights the delicate balance between artistic expression and intellectual property rights, especially when it comes to creative concepts and performance titles in the entertainment industry.