Football star Kerem Akturkoglu is facing legal action from a prominent movie studio regarding his wand-waving "Harry Potter"-themed goal celebration.
The 27-year-old Fenerbahçe forward is being sued by Warner Bros for copyright infringement after consistently using his Expelliarmus celebration for the past four years.
Fenerbahçe attacker Kerem Akturkoglu is being sued by Warner BrosCredit: GettyHis celebration draws inspiration from the iconic Harry Potter franchiseCredit: Handout
Some fans have even nicknamed the former attacker, who has 49 caps for the national team, “Kerem Potter.”
This nickname originated from a post where he wore round glasses along with his former club’s red and yellow kit.
Observant fans noted that he was sporting Gryffindor colors, leading them to dub him the “Turkish wizard.”
Warner Bros stated that terms like “Harry Potter,” “Hogwarts,” and “Gryffindor” are registered trademarks in Turkey.
The lawsuit argues that gestures similar to those Akturkoglu is known for cannot be utilized without explicit permission.
The American company asserted that these trademarks extend beyond the renowned books and films, holding significant global recognition and commercial value.
Documents submitted included trademark registration tables and screenshots of the star’s social media posts.
The film giant claimed that the football player directly referenced these trademarks.
It was also reported that his social media videos featured music from the beloved franchise, including the well-known tune “Hedwig’s Theme.”
Footage revealed some of his posts used animations resembling Harry Potter characters, the Hogwarts crest, and decorations similar to those in the films.
The filing alleged that he performed Harry Potter-inspired celebrations on the pitch, including wand-like gestures.
Warner Bros argued that all evidence they provided was unauthorized, constituting both copyright and trademark infringement.
The company claimed that each instance violated the economic and moral rights of the rights holder under the Intellectual and Industrial Property Rights.
Warner Bros has reportedly requested the court to mandate an expert examination of the player’s social media posts.
This analysis would determine whether the clips contained copyrighted music, characters, or other visual elements from the Harry Potter universe.
The petition also requested that this examination be conducted discreetly without notifying the player.
The star’s lawyer stated: “Kerem Aktürkoğlu was born in 1998. The Harry Potter character began to gain global popularity in 1997.
“It wouldn’t be fair to pursue legal action against Akturkoglu for celebrating a goal inspired by a beloved character from his childhood.”
Ex-Galatasaray player Kerem Akturkoglu celebrates after scoring a goal during a Champions League match against Manchester United in 2023Credit: GettyThe star was said to resemble the beloved character by fans on social mediaCredit: Instagram / @keremakturkoglu
What is the reason behind Warner Bros' lawsuit against Kerem Akturkoglu?
Warner Bros is suing Kerem Akturkoglu for copyright infringement due to his use of a "Harry Potter"-inspired goal celebration, claiming it violates their registered trademarks.
What specific elements of the celebration are in question?
The lawsuit focuses on gestures similar to those seen in the Harry Potter franchise, including wand-like movements and the use of associated music and visuals.
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His celebration draws inspiration from the iconic Harry Potter franchiseCredit: Handout
Ex-Galatasaray player Kerem Akturkoglu celebrates after scoring a goal during a Champions League match against Manchester United in 2023Credit: Getty
The star was said to resemble the beloved character by fans on social mediaCredit: Instagram / @keremakturkoglu
