New Delhi: Bollywood star R Madhavan fights back against fake trailers and obscene AI videos using his face. Delhi High Court steps in with a big order to protect him. What’s next for these viral deepfake scams targeting celebs? Dig in for more details about the high court orders.
Court orders takedown
The Delhi High Court on Monday protected actor R Madhavan’s personality rights by restraining websites and online platforms from using his name or images for commercial gain without consent. Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora passed the ad interim injunction and ordered the takedown of obscene content and unauthorised merchandise sales. The court said, “Issue injunction qua sale of merchandise qua 1,3 and 4 of the list and qua 2 on the ground of obscenity.”
Fake trailers exposed
Senior Advocate Swathi Sukumar, representing Madhavan, told the court that the defendants created fake movie trailers for Kesari 3 and Shaitaan 2, claiming the films were coming soon, with deepfake and AI-generated content featuring the actor. She noted, “The actor had already approached the social media platforms against the infringing material before filing the suit.” One fan page even showed Madhavan as ‘Hulk’, which he opposes.
AI content debate
The judge questioned why some complained content was removed while others stayed online. On AI issues, the court remarked, “I am not clear about the AI issue. I will think about it. I will not pass orders right now.” It indicated some content could be made “invisible” but needs more thought on broader AI legal matters. The next hearing is in May 2026.
Celeb trend and Madhavan’s hits
This follows similar suits by Aishwarya Rai, Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Pawan Kalyan. Courts have also protected Salman Khan, Nagarjuna, and others from deepfakes. In 2025, Madhavan starred in hits like Hisaab Barabar, Kesari Chapter 2, and Dhurandhar, the highest-grossing Indian film with over Rs 850 crore worldwide. His Upcoming movies are Dhurandhar 2, GDN, and Adhirshtasaali.