Apollonia Reveals Prince Was "Adamant" She Keep Using Her Name Amid Trademark Dispute

Apollonia insists Prince supported her continued use of the Apollonia name despite ongoing trademark battles with his estate.

A Name That Shines Through Decades

If you grew up in the '80s, you probably remember the electric charisma of Purple Rain, Prince’s cinematic masterpiece that launched Patricia Apollonia Kotero—known simply as Apollonia—into the spotlight. Handpicked by Prince himself to star as his love interest, Apollonia's name became synonymous with that iconic era, thanks to her starring role and her work fronting the group Apollonia 6.

Fast forward nearly 40 years later, and the name Apollonia is still stirring up headlines—not for music, but for a legal tussle that feels tangled in legacy, love, and the complex world of trademarks.

Prince and Apollonia shared a creative bond that has lasted decades

The Trademark Tussle: Estate vs. Artist

Last June, Paisley Park Enterprises (PPE)—the entity managing Prince’s estate—filed an “intent-to-use” trademark application for the Apollonia name. This move ignited a fierce legal battle when Apollonia herself fought back, filing a lawsuit claiming the estate was attempting to wrest control of a name she’s carried proudly through her singing and acting career.

PPE, standing firm, insisted their trademark application was a necessary legal step to protect Prince’s legacy—not a personal attack on Apollonia. The back-and-forth unfurled publicly, with the estate seeking to dismiss Apollonia’s claims.

A Personal Promise From Prince

Here’s where the story gets truly heartfelt: in a declaration filed in federal court on January 16, Apollonia shared a deeply personal moment with Prince just two months before his passing.

After a concert in Oakland, California, in February 2016, Prince met with Apollonia and fellow Apollonia 6 member Susan Moonsie. Apollonia recalled how Prince was “adamant” that both women continue using their names and trademarks for their creative and financial well-being.

“During our conversations that evening, Prince was adamant that we continue with our ventures such as musical performances, merchandising, and audiovisual projects, and that he wanted us both to use our Apollonia and Apollonia 6 trademarks in order to be able to earn a living, stay creative, and be financially secure in our later years.”

– Apollonia Kotero

This was no casual chat; it was a clear directive from Prince himself, underscoring his support for their ongoing careers.

The Estate’s Defense and Apollonia’s Concerns

A key point in Apollonia’s argument is that Prince never trademarked the Apollonia name during his lifetime. So, when the estate moved to register it, she felt it was a breach of his personal wishes.

In her declaration, she expressed her fear and frustration clearly: if the estate wins control of the Apollonia name, she worries about losing her identity, business interruption, and the ability to continue using the name without legal repercussions.

“The truth is none of this litigation would have occurred if Prince were still alive,” she said. “He would be appalled by the unbecoming conduct of PPE and the efforts by PPE to usurp his wishes.”

Meanwhile, PPE’s motion to dismiss includes their claim that they have “never threatened to sue” Apollonia or asked her to cease using her stage name or business activities.

Looking Back: Apollonia’s Legacy Beyond the Legal Battle

For fans, Apollonia’s journey is a nostalgic ride. From her standout role in Purple Rain to the dance floors where Apollonia 6’s hit “Sex Shooter” (produced by Prince himself) ruled the airwaves, her presence has been a vibrant thread in music and pop culture history.

Did you know Apollonia 6 also recorded “Manic Monday” in 1984? The track was pulled before release, only for The Bangles’ version to become a smash hit two years later. Apollonia’s solo career and TV roles, like her part in Falcon Crest, further cemented her multi-talented legacy.

Prince’s Legacy and the Aftermath

Prince’s untimely death in April 2016 from an accidental fentanyl overdose sent shockwaves throughout the music world. Without children or a will, his vast estate has been tangled in legal challenges ever since.

This ongoing trademark dispute over Apollonia’s name is just one chapter in the broader story of protecting the legendary artist’s legacy while respecting those who shared it with him.

Reliving a Classic: Watch the Purple Rain Trailer

For a trip down memory lane, here’s the official trailer for Purple Rain — a film that launched a thousand memories and introduced us all to Apollonia’s unique charm:

Apollonia 6’s “Sex Shooter” — A Timeless Hit

And here’s a classic performance of “Sex Shooter,” the song that’s forever linked to Apollonia 6 and the Prince production magic.

What’s Next in the Legal Showdown?

A hearing to decide on the estate’s motion to dismiss Apollonia’s lawsuit is set for February 13. Fans and followers alike will be watching closely, as the outcome could shape the future of Apollonia’s career and the handling of Prince’s treasured legacy.

FAQ

• How did Apollonia become associated with Prince?
  Apollonia was personally chosen by Prince to star in Purple Rain and later led the group Apollonia 6, establishing a close artistic partnership.
• Why is there a trademark dispute over Apollonia's name?
  After Prince’s death, the estate filed for a trademark on the Apollonia name, leading Apollonia to sue, claiming the estate was trying to take control of a name she has used for decades.
• Did Prince support Apollonia using her name?
  Yes, Apollonia claims Prince personally told her and Susan Moonsie in 2016 to continue using their trademarks and pursue their creative ventures.
• What is Paisley Park Enterprises' stance?
  The estate insists their trademark filing is a legal necessity to protect Prince’s legacy and denies any intent to threaten or stop Apollonia’s use of the name.
• What’s the significance of the upcoming hearing?
  The hearing will determine whether Apollonia’s lawsuit proceeds or is dismissed, potentially deciding the control over the Apollonia trademark.

Feeling inspired by Apollonia’s timeless style and music? Celebrate her legacy with a stylish album cover poster to brighten your space. Check out our curated collection at Architeg Prints.