VTuber star Filian’s dreams of immortalization in plastic have come crashing down. Good Smile Company, the makers of the popular Nendoroid figurines, have pulled the plug on their plans to create a Filian figure. It turns out our favorite virtual streamer doesn’t actually own the rights to her own face!
The announcement of a Filian Nendoroid sent fans into a frenzy of excitement. But faster than you can say “copyright infringement,” the celebration turned sour. Good Smile Company quickly withdrew their plans when it became clear that Filian didn’t have the legal rights to her VTuber model.
Not only does Filian not own her main “Rindo” model, she’s also been using another model called “Mint” for merch without permission. Two models, zero licenses, and a whole lot of trouble. The figurine has since been removed from display at the Good Smile Company.
The VTuber community is in an uproar. Some fans are defending Filian, claiming ignorance isn’t a crime. Others are calling for her head on a virtual platter. Meanwhile, Jingo, the creator of the “Rindo” model, is scratching his head, wondering how his work ended up in a Nendoroid factory without his knowledge.
VTubers, or Virtual YouTubers, are content creators who use animated digital avatars to interact with their audience. They stream, game, sing, and chat while embodying their virtual characters. Originating in Japan, VTubers have gained global popularity. They often collaborate with artists for their avatars, which can sometimes lead to intellectual property issues, as seen in Filian’s case.
This isn’t just about cute figurines. Filian’s been selling merch featuring these borrowed faces, which is a big no-no in the world of intellectual property. The models’ terms of service allow for streaming and videos, but slapping them on t-shirts and mugs? That’s crossing the line.
Legal experts are warning that Filian could be in for a world of hurt. Lawsuits, hefty fines, and a seriously damaged reputation are all on the table. In the digital age, “borrowing” can come with consequences.
This incident might mark the beginning of significant changes in the VTuber realm. Many creators might not fully grasp the complexities of IP rights. What’s next for Filian?
She might try to settle things quietly with the model creators. Or perhaps it’s time for a complete makeover—one that’s 100% legally owned. Either way, this serves as a wake-up call for all content creators virtual and real alike.
