Vladimir Putin Wanted to Sue WB, Thought a Beloved Harry Potter Character Was Based on Him

In 2003, a strange rumor circulated that Russian President Vladimir Putin wanted to take legal action against Warner Bros over the Harry Potter character Dobby the House Elf. While the story raised eyebrows, the supposed lawsuit never materialized.

President Vladimir Putin’s Lawyers Claimed Dobby’s Resemblance

According to The Guardian, reports in BBC News and other outlets at the time, Putin’s legal team attempted to make the case that the awkward, big-eared Dobby bore an insulting resemblance to the Russian leader. Speculation spread that Putin aimed to sue Harry Potter producers and Warner Bros over the alleged similarities.

A representative of Russia’s lawyer guild cast doubt on whether such a lawsuit could succeed in court. But according to the rumors, Putin’s lawyers were willing to give it a shot anyway. While the story went viral, the actual resemblance between Putin and the CGI-created fantasy creature seems tenuous at best.

The timid, eccentric Dobby looks nothing like the 5’6″, steely-eyed Putin. And their personalities could hardly be more different. While comparisons may have been made in jest, serious legal action over the fictional elf seemed highly improbable.

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No Confirmation Lawsuit Was Actually Filed

Although Russian and Western media buzzed about Putin’s supposed legal threat in 2003, no concrete evidence ever emerged that an actual suit was filed.

Some reports cited the Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta covering preparations for legal action. But no court records or lawyer statements exist to verify this.

The New York Times later reported the same year that no lawsuit could be confirmed with Putin’s attorneys. In the end, the story created more global interest than legal fallout. While Putin’s image-conscious ego may have been bruised, Warner Bros appeared untouched by the odd Chapter in Harry Potter lore.

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Dobby’s Heroic Legacy Lives On

While Putin’s rumored lawsuit never transpired, Dobby left an indelible mark on the Harry Potter universe. The eccentric house elf perished heroically in Deathly Hallows, cementing his place as a fan favorite. Dobby’s bravery and selflessness resonated deeply with readers and movie audiences. Despite his quirks, he embodied the qualities of a true Gryffindor.

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The legacy of Dobby’s character has outlived any fleeting comparisons made between him and Putin years ago. He remains a beloved symbol of courage who gave his life to save others. Whatever inspired the strange rumor of Putin’s displeasure, fans continue to be inspired by Dobby’s story. The heroic elf is likely to captivate new generations when Harry Potter is rebooted for the big screen.