Gladness Jukic, a 32-year-old singer known as Bossiie, has filed a £10 million lawsuit against the BBC, accusing the broadcaster of stealing her idea for the hit reality show Glow Up: Britain’s Next Make-Up Star.
Allegations of Idea Theft
Jukic alleges that she pitched a concept titled Bossiie: 10-Minute Makeover to BBC commissioning editors in May 2018. Her nine-page PowerPoint presentation featured self-taught YouTube make-up artists competing for recognition, with brand collaborations as a key component. She claims the concept bears a striking resemblance to Glow Up, which debuted on BBC3 in 2019 and has since become a television favorite.
BBC Denies Receiving Pitch
The BBC denies receiving Jukic’s pitch, arguing that her email bounced back due to the attachment size. According to Ashton Chantrielle, the BBC’s legal representative, the concept for Glow Up was independently created by Wall to Wall Media Ltd, a Warner Bros subsidiary, and had been pitched to the BBC before Jukic’s alleged submission.
Chantrielle stated, “The Glow Up show is an original format, created independently by Wall to Wall Media, and produced without reference to Ms. Jukic’s treatment.”
Focus of the Legal Dispute
Jukic’s lawsuit not only seeks financial compensation but also aims to establish her ownership of the show’s copyright. She argues that Glow Up incorporates key elements of her pitch, including the competitive format and brand tie-ins.
The BBC, however, contends that these features are too generic to qualify for copyright protection. They also point out significant differences, such as Jukic’s emphasis on self-taught YouTubers, whereas Glow Up focuses on traditional make-up artists and downplays brand partnerships.
Previous Legal Challenges
This is not Jukic’s first legal battle over the show. She previously lost a trademark case involving the title Glow Up: Britain’s Next Make-Up Star, which was contested by Warner Bros, resulting in a £2,500 court cost.
Current Proceedings
The High Court heard arguments from both sides, with Jukic asserting that her idea was “stolen” and that she has suffered financial and emotional distress as a result. Meanwhile, the BBC’s legal team maintains confidence in their defense, emphasizing the independent development of the show.
The judge has reserved their decision, leaving Jukic and the BBC awaiting the outcome of whether the case will proceed to a full trial.
Popularity of the ‘Glow Up’ Franchise
The legal battle comes as Glow Up enjoys widespread success, with multiple seasons aired and a loyal fan base. Jukic’s fight for recognition and compensation continues, but whether her claims will stand in court remains uncertain.
