Jay-Z Sues Attorney Tony Buzbee For Defamation Over False Assault Allegations, Claims $20M In Losses

Hip-hop icon Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter has filed a lawsuit against Texas attorney Tony Buzbee, accusing him of defamation, civil extortion, and intentional infliction of emotional distress following the dismissal of a rape case against him.

The lawsuit stems from allegations made in October 2024, when a plaintiff known as Jane Doe accused Jay-Z and music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl at an MTV Video Music Awards afterparty in 2000. The lawsuit, which shocked the entertainment industry, was dismissed with prejudice on February 14, 2025, preventing it from being refiled.

Jay-Z claims the false allegations were strategically filed the night before his daughter Blue Ivy’s Mufasa: The Lion King movie premiere, deliberately aiming to cause personal and financial harm. He alleges that the scandal cost him $20 million in lost business contracts, as companies severed ties amid the controversy.

In response to the dismissal, Jay-Z stated:
“The frivolous, fictitious, and appalling allegations have been dismissed. The lawsuit was without merit and never going anywhere.”

He further accused Buzbee of launching a malicious attack on his character, claiming the attorney’s actions were meant to pressure him into settling.

“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.”

Beyond financial losses, Jay-Z said the lawsuit caused immense emotional distress, forcing him into hiding to escape media scrutiny.

His legal action seeks damages and aims to set a precedent against attorneys who exploit the legal system for personal or professional gain.