In a significant legal development, singer and playwright Nicci Gilbert has been ordered to pay $600,000 in legal fees after losing her copyright lawsuit against Lionsgate and Starz. The lawsuit centered around the popular TV series “P-Valley,” which Gilbert claimed had copied elements from her 2011 musical stage play, “Soul Kittens Cabaret.” Nicci Gilbert, known for her work with the R&B group Brownstone and her role in “R&B Divas,” filed the lawsuit in 2022. She alleged that “P-Valley,” a drama series that explores the lives of dancers in the Mississippi Delta, had borrowed key aspects of her play without permission. Gilbert pointed out similarities in the storyline, characters, and themes between her work and the TV show. After a thorough review, the court sided with Lionsgate and Starz, concluding that the similarities between “Soul Kittens Cabaret” and “P-Valley” were not substantial enough to constitute copyright infringement1. This decision was a significant blow to Gilbert, who had

been vocal about her belief that her intellectual property had been unfairly used. As a result of the court’s decision, Gilbert has been ordered to cover the legal fees incurred by Lionsgate, Starz, and the creators of “P-Valley.” The $600,000 judgment adds to the financial strain on Gilbert, who has also mentioned owing her attorney a substantial amount in legal fees. Despite the setback, Gilbert remains determined to fight for her rights. In a video posted on her YT channel, she expressed her frustration with the court’s decision and reiterated her commitment to protecting her creative work. Gilbert also mentioned her plans to appeal the ruling. While this legal battle marks a challenging chapter for Nicci Gilbert, it also highlights the complexities of copyright law and the importance of protecting intellectual property. As “P-Valley” continues its production for Season 3, Gilbert’s case serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles artists face in safeguarding their creative endeavors.