A federal lawsuit alleges that Bling Empire's fashion-forward star Kaine Lim has locked down over a deal with entrepreneur Jonathan Kuhn.
In February 2019, Lim began filming a reality series for Netflix that follows the lives of several wealthy Asians based in Los Angeles.
Lim, who has worked “with iconic brands and fashion houses such as Versace and Nobu Group,” was touted by media outlets as “the breakout star of the show,” which began streaming in 2021 and ran for three seasons. According to a lawsuit filed on September 30 in Manhattan federal court.
As a result, in late spring 2021, Lim was introduced to Kuhn, “a Chinese-American who calls himself an entrepreneur, artist, and fashion designer” through a mutual friend. This was because she was attracting media attention due to her fashion. No. 8, the brand for which he designed jewelry,” the suit reads.
According to the complaint, the two entered into a “branding agreement” in August of that year in which Lim used his role on Bling Empire to feature and endorse No. 8 jewelry products.
Lim met the deadline for the deal, but said the 10% commission stated in the deal was never paid, according to the filing.
It also alleges contract fraud in that he invested $100,000 in Kuhn's clothing and accessories company Bling, of which he was supposed to donate 10% to charity.
The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages.
Lim's lawyer did not return messages. Kuhn, of Great Neck, could not be reached for comment.
