The entertainment industry is not without its share of legal controversies or lawsuits, even for prominent Black celebrities especially this year, 2023. There’s nothing more startling to fans than the high-stakes legal battles that some of their favorite celebrities have to endure and sometimes, fans are compelled to take sides.
These 2023 legal cases have garnered a substantial amount of attention and scrutiny for a variety of reasons, including allegations of defamation, sexual abuse, as well as allegations of abuse. Let’s dig into the specifics here.
Recent lawsuits in 2023 against Black celebrities
Tory Lanez Vs Megan Thee Stallion
Unless you’ve been hiding out in a cave, you’ve probably heard about this trial. Megan Thee Stallion whose real name is Megan Pete, was shot in the foot by a gunman on July 12, 2020, following a pool party at Kylie Jenner’s house.
On October 8, 2020, the artist confirmed that the gunman was Tory Lanez whose true name is Daystar Peterson, by posting a video on her Instagram page in which she said, “Yes, this n**** Tory shot me.”
The internet went into a frenzy after Megan Thee Stallion made the charge, with some users insisting that Tory would never shoot a lady and others labeling Megan as the next “Amber Rose”. Despite this, many people stood behind Megan because they believed she had no reason to lie about her fellow rapper.
Eventually, Tory Lanez was detained on a charge of having a hidden weapon in a vehicle, but he was not arrested for allegedly shooting as there was not enough evidence to support the case.
Finally, justice was severed as evidence indeed proved that the rapper, Tory Lanez was found guilty and sentenced.
Lizzo VS Backup singers
Lizzo’s sexual harassment allegations is another 2023 legal case that has been thrust into the public eye. Three of the pop star’s former dancers have accused Lizzo of sexual harassment and many fans are still shocked by the allegations.
Over the years, the Special artist has marketed herself as an advocate for body acceptance and women’s liberation. However, she is accused of alleging sexually assaulting her backup singers and making derogatory comments about their weight and appearance.
On August 1, 2023, Noelle Rodriguez, Arianna Davis, and Crystal Williams, three of Lizzo’s backup dancers, filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles County Superior Court against Lizzo, her dance team leader Shirlene Quigley, and her production business, Big Grrrl Big Touring Inc.
The lawsuit accuses her of fostering an unsafe and harassing workplace for her coworkers. Nevertheless, some celebrities came out to express their full support for the “About damn time” singer including Beyonce and Owen Candace.
What Else?
The prospect of legal conflict is daunting for anyone, and we can only pray that nobody has to face one. As the trial continues, it appears that Lizzo’s charges will be the focus of media attention in the second half of this year, while the shooting of Megan Thee dominated the first.
Any legal case you think should be on the list? Comment below
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