Hip-hop legend Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter has filed a lawsuit against Texas attorney Tony Buzbee, with the case being officially filed in February 2025, accusing him of defamation, civil extortion, and intentionally causing emotional distress.

The legal action comes after a rape case filed against Jay-Z and fellow music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs was dismissed in October 2024. Jay-Z claims the false allegations, which were strategically filed the night before his daughter Blue Ivy’s big movie premiere, seemingly to overshadow the positive media attention surrounding the event, for Mufasa: The Lion King, caused significant personal and financial damage, including $20 million in lost business contracts.

The initial lawsuit, brought by a woman identified as Jane Doe, accused Jay-Z and Diddy of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl, citing court documents filed in Texas. at an MTV Video Music Awards afterparty in 2000. The shocking claims made headlines, sparking intense media scrutiny and putting Jay-Z’s reputation on the line.

However, on February 14, 2025, the case was voluntarily dismissed with prejudice, meaning it can never be refiled. Afterward, Jay-Z addressed the situation, saying,

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

Jay-Z argues the timing of the lawsuit was no coincidence, calling it a deliberate, malicious act designed to pressure him into a settlement.

"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."

He said the accusations cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous milestone for his daughter. The legal filing came just hours before Blue Ivy's big night, threatening to steal the spotlight from her debut.

Beyond the emotional toll, Jay-Z says the false claims had serious financial consequences, including the loss of sponsorship deals, concert bookings, and brand endorsements. The controversy reportedly led to several canceled contracts and endorsements, costing him $20 million in potential revenue.

The rapper also described the intense psychological stress he endured, explaining that he had to stay out of the public eye to escape the media circus.

With this lawsuit, Jay-Z is seeking financial damages and hopes to send a clear message: lawyers who weaponize the legal system for personal gain must be held accountable.