Oslo court orders removal of posters featuring Marius Borg Høiby in downtown Oslo

The Oslo District Court has ordered Universal Music AS to remove all posters featuring Marius Borg Høiby that have been displayed in various locations in downtown Oslo. The posters are part of the promotional campaign for the latest album by the artist Marstein. This decision was announced by the court on Monday afternoon, emphasizing that Høiby’s image cannot be used for any further promotion of the album.

The court stated that while Høiby, as a public figure, must accept that his image can be used in journalistic contexts, there is a significant difference when such images are used for commercial purposes. The court highlighted that the portrayal of Høiby is derogatory, particularly as it relates to a song by Marstein titled “3 vise menn,” which includes disparaging references to him.

Høiby is currently facing charges for assault, criminal damage, making threats, reckless behavior, and violating a restraining order against an ex-girlfriend. He has admitted to committing violence under the influence of cocaine and alcohol. The court granted a temporary injunction, which requires immediate cessation of actions until a final decision is made regarding the case. The ruling noted that delaying action to halt the use of Høiby’s image could cause him additional distress.

The court required Universal Music to immediately stop using any images of Høiby in the promotion of Marstein’s music album, as well as to remove all related posters from public spaces across Norway. Høiby’s attorney, Øyvind Bratlien, stated that the media backlash against his client has been ongoing and emphasized the serious nature of the personal violation and commercial exploitation involved in the campaign.