Jay-Z Sues Attorney Tony Buzbee Over False Rape Allegations, Claims $20 Million in Losses

Hip-hop mogul Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter has taken legal action against Texas-based attorney Tony Buzbee, accusing him of defamation, civil extortion, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

The lawsuit follows the dismissal of a rape case filed against Jay-Z and fellow music executive Sean “Diddy” Combs in October 2024.

Jay-Z claims that the false allegations, strategically filed the night before his daughter Blue Ivy’s highly anticipated Mufasa: The Lion King movie premiere, resulted in severe personal and financial damage—including the loss of $20 million in business contracts.

The Lawsuit That Rocked the Industry

The initial lawsuit, filed by a plaintiff known as Jane Doe, accused Jay-Z and Diddy of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl at an MTV Video Music Awards afterparty in 2000. The shocking claims sent ripples through the entertainment industry, drawing widespread media attention and putting Jay-Z’s reputation on the line.

However, on February 14, 2025, the case was voluntarily dismissed with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled in the future. In response, Jay-Z stated,

“The frivolous, fictitious, and appalling allegations have been dismissed. The lawsuit was without merit and never going anywhere.”

While he expressed relief at the case’s dismissal, the damage had already been done. The rap icon insists that the timing of the lawsuit was intentional and malicious, designed to force him into a no-win situation.

The Impact on Blue Ivy’s Movie Premiere

Jay-Z’s legal declaration, filed on February 10 in Los Angeles, details how the lawsuit’s timing forced him to make a heartbreaking choice:

“I felt that Mr. Buzbee was placing a gun to my head—that I either bow to his demands or endure personal and financial ruin.”

According to Jay-Z, the lawsuit was strategically filed just hours before Blue Ivy’s big night at the premiere of Mufasa: The Lion King. As a proud father, he wanted to support his daughter’s milestone moment, but the cloud of the allegations threatened to overshadow the event.

$20 Million in Lost Contracts and Emotional Distress

Beyond the personal toll, Jay-Z asserts that the false allegations cost him $20 million in lost contracts. The scandal allegedly led to canceled business deals and endorsements, as companies distanced themselves amid the controversy.

The rapper, entrepreneur, and philanthropist also described the immense psychological strain he endured, stating that the lawsuit forced him into “hiding” to avoid the negative media attention. The emotional distress, he claims, was a calculated attack on his character and legacy.

Tony Buzbee’s Legal History and Other Controversies

Jay-Z’s lawsuit against Buzbee isn’t the first time the high-profile attorney has faced scrutiny.

• In December 2024, Jay-Z’s lawyer, Alex Spiro, filed a separate complaint against Buzbee, accusing him of extortion and defamation.
• In New York Supreme Court, Buzbee himself is being sued by a woman who claims he transmitted a venereal disease to her after a 2018 encounter.

Buzbee, known for handling high-profile cases, has yet to comment publicly on Jay-Z’s latest lawsuit.

Diddy’s Legal Troubles Continue

Although Jay-Z has successfully cleared his name, Sean “Diddy” Combs is still entangled in multiple legal battles.

Diddy has been incarcerated since September 2024, facing racketeering and sex trafficking charges. His trial is scheduled for May 2025, and legal experts suggest the outcome could have far-reaching consequences for the music industry.

What’s Next for Jay-Z?

Jay-Z remains determined to hold Buzbee accountable for what he describes as a deliberate smear campaign. His lawsuit seeks financial damages and aims to set a precedent against attorneys who misuse the legal system for personal or professional gain.

While the legal battle is ongoing, Jay-Z continues to focus on his family, business ventures, and music career. The lawsuit’s resolution could mark an important moment in the fight against weaponized lawsuits and character assassination in the entertainment industry.

For now, the legendary rapper’s message is clear: he refuses to let false allegations define his legacy.