Tyra Banks Battles Ex-Landlord in Ice Cream Shop Dispute – A “Celebrity Shakedown”?
Supermodel and entrepreneur Tyra Banks is currently locked in a legal battle with a Washington D.C. Landlord, Christopher Powell, over a planned ice cream shop venture, Smize & Dream. Banks is seeking over $50,000 in sanctions, alleging Powell attempted a “celebrity shakedown” by pursuing a lawsuit despite knowing of her relocation to Australia.
The Scrapped D.C. Flagship Store
The dispute centers around a 10-year lease signed in April 2024 for a location in Washington, D.C. Powell claims he invested significantly in renovations, anticipating the store would be Banks’ flagship location and a boon to the local community. However, Banks reportedly abandoned the D.C. Project in June 2024 and ceased paying rent, subsequently opening a location in Sydney, Australia.
A $2.8 Million Lawsuit and Claims of “Weaponizing” Celebrity
Powell initially filed a lawsuit in October 2025 against Banks and her business partner, Louis Bélanger-Martin, seeking damages exceeding $2.8 million. He alleged financial losses due to turning down other potential tenants. The lawsuit further claimed Banks “weaponized” her celebrity status to discourage him from pursuing legal action.
Banks Counters with a “Celebrity Shakedown” Claim
Banks vehemently denies the allegations, stating she terminated the lease for legitimate reasons. She asserts that Powell was aware of her move to Australia and her limited ties to the U.S., particularly Washington D.C. Powell voluntarily dismissed the original case in December, prompting Banks to seek sanctions.
The Rise of Celebrity-Owned Food Businesses and Legal Risks
Banks’ venture into the ice cream business reflects a growing trend of celebrities launching food and beverage brands. While these ventures often benefit from built-in brand recognition, they also present unique legal challenges. The potential for disputes over leases, contracts, and intellectual property is heightened when a celebrity’s public image and schedule are involved.
Location, Location, Location: The Importance of Due Diligence
This case highlights the critical importance of thorough due diligence in commercial real estate transactions. Landlords must verify a tenant’s long-term commitment and financial stability before investing in renovations. Similarly, tenants should carefully review lease agreements and consider potential relocation scenarios.
Sanctions as a Deterrent: Protecting Celebrities from Frivolous Lawsuits?
Banks’ pursuit of sanctions is a notable aspect of the case. Sanctions are typically imposed to penalize parties for bad faith litigation or frivolous claims. Her aim is to discourage similar attempts to exploit a celebrity’s reputation for financial gain. This case could set a precedent for how courts address such disputes in the future.
FAQ
- What is Tyra Banks seeking from the landlord? Over $50,000 in sanctions.
- What is the landlord’s claim against Tyra Banks? He alleges she breached a lease agreement and caused him financial losses.
- Where was Tyra Banks planning to open her ice cream shop? Initially in Washington, D.C., but she later opened a location in Sydney, Australia.
- What is a “celebrity shakedown”? According to Banks, it’s an attempt to exploit her celebrity status for financial gain through a lawsuit.
Pro Tip: Before signing a commercial lease, consult with an attorney to ensure your interests are protected and you understand your obligations.
Have you ever experienced a business dispute? Share your story in the comments below!
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