Epic Games Is Being Sued By "The Backpack Kid"

The Backpack Kid Sues Epic Games(Fortnite) For Using His Dance Move.

Russell Horning, also known as Backpack Kid is suing Epic games over claims that the company used his dance in Fortnite without any permission, according to Horning’s legal representatives and other sources.

The dance he is claiming ownership over is called “Flossing”, It was what helped him gain popularity online. After posting videos of himself "Floosing" on Instagram, Horning quickly became a viral sensation, shortly after he was getting invited to various events and performances for his signature dance. The Fortnite dance emote that provoked these legal actions is called “The Floss,” and when you've seen Horning's dance, you'll instantly recognize it.

Horning is the third celebrity to file a complaint against Epic Games in the last month. right after Alfonso Ribeiro and rapper 2 Milly — all represented by the same law firm — 

Just like these other performers, Horning does not own the copyright to his dance — a very difficult step in claiming ownership rights— but has filed for the patent. Unlike his fellow performers, Horning has been at Epic Games events in the past, the even had relations with the game Fortnite. Back in June 2018, Horning played in Fortnite's E3 Pro-Am. During the event, Horning was asked by TMZ whether or not he thought he should get something from having his dance "Flossing" in the game, which he replied to : 

It’s not that big of a deal, I’m just glad it’s in the game.

Backpack Kid spoke out on "TMZ Live" Tuesday, saying that it's not about money, it's because he cares about people watching and enjoying his videos. Besides, he says he has more important things to do, like preparing for his 17th birthday and releasing a new single. 

Epic Games still doesn't have a comment at the moment about these ongoing events.