File this one under: “Reality TV Legal Crossovers We Didn’t See Coming.”
TMZ reports that Josh Weinstein– whose on-again, off-again relationship with Natalie Mordovtseva was documented on Seasons 2-4 of 90 Day: The Single Life– is being sued by Sharaun Brown of America’s Next Top Model Cycle 11.
According to the outlet, Sharaun is accusing Josh of using her image to market his company, Preview Models, without paying her to do so.
(Josh is listed as the CEO/Founder of Preview Models, an “international model production company” based out of Los Angeles.)
Sharaun’s lawsuit not only accuses Josh of using her modeling photos on the Preview Models website to promote his company, but she also claims to have been listed on the website as a “Celebrity Mentor” for the company, presumably to lure in aspiring models by using her fame. (Sharaun— real name Brittany–appeared on ‘America’s Next Top Model’ in 2008 and was the first girl booted from that season. However, she went on to sign with Elite Models after the season and has modeled for all types of brands, including Marc Jacobs and Betsy Johnson.)
Sharaun alleges that Preview Models began using her image around February 2023, at which point her modeling photos were featured in ads for open casting calls, fashion shows and booking services.
While she claims the former 90 Day Fiancé star agreed to pay her for the use of her modeling images in educational and marketing materials for Preview Models, Sharaun claims Josh has yet to compensate her. As a result, she requested Preview Models stop using her image–- in any form–- in May 2023.
Sharaun is suing Josh for unspecified damages for the unauthorized use of her images and for violating her right of publicity.
UPDATE! Josh’s company later responded to the TMZ story. The company stated that it was allowed to use the images of Sharaun due to their previous agreement.
“[The company states that it] worked with Sharaun and did everything in obtaining and using her image on the up and up — but claims they got a letter from her in November that demanded money over what she felt was an unauthorized use of her likeness.”
The company also told the site that it destroyed “any unauthorized materials” associated with Sharaun and that the model hadn’t contacted them before she filed the lawsuit.
“Preview Models also tells us they haven’t even been served with any papers pertaining to this suit … but note that if/when they officially become aware of it, they’ll defend themselves … and might even countersue her if need be.”
(Photos: TLC; Instagram)
2 Responses
@Whatever, straight FACTS, Josh is definitely a slimeball, to be more definitive he’s actually a narcissistic, arrogant,immature, poor excuse for a man, POS a$$hole. I believe he actually started not to like Natalie on 90 Day, but continued for the fame or clout. Smh, I hope Sharaun gets justice.🤯🤨🥶🤮🧐🤬🤡🤥🙄🤔🤑😒
Team Sharaun. This seems like a very valid case for a lawsuit.
Also, Josh is a slimeball.