Music mogul Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter has initiated a defamation lawsuit against attorney Tony Buzbee, his colleague David Fortney, and their client, referred to as Jane Doe, following the withdrawal of a previous sexual assault allegation. The lawsuit, filed on March 3 in Alabama, asserts that the prior accusations were knowingly false and malicious, aiming to inflict maximum harm on Jay-Z’s reputation and career.
Background of the Allegations
In October 2024, Jane Doe, represented by Buzbee and Fortney, accused Jay-Z and Sean “Diddy” Combs of sexually assaulting her at an MTV Video Music Awards after-party in 2000, when she was 13 years old. Jay-Z vehemently denied these allegations, labeling them a blackmail attempt. The lawsuit was voluntarily dismissed by the accuser’s attorneys on February 14, 2025, following inconsistencies in the accuser’s account.
In the recent filing, Jay-Z alleges that the defendants engaged in malicious prosecution, abuse of process, civil conspiracy, and defamation. He claims that Jane Doe admitted to his representatives that no assault occurred and that Buzbee coerced her into advancing the false narrative for financial gain. Jay-Z asserts that these unfounded allegations have caused significant harm to his reputation and business ventures, resulting in substantial financial losses.
Responses from Tony Buzbee and Jane Doe
Attorney Tony Buzbee has refuted Jay-Z’s claims, stating that the new lawsuit mirrors previous meritless allegations and denies any attempts to intimidate or bully the accuser. He maintains that his client stands by her original claims.
Jane Doe has also responded, asserting that Jay-Z’s legal actions are attempts to pressure her into recanting her allegations. She claims that individuals purportedly working for Jay-Z’s legal team approached her and her family, seeking to obtain a statement declaring her accusations as false, which she refused. Jane Doe maintains that her decision to withdraw the initial lawsuit was driven by fear of public exposure and potential backlash.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
This defamation lawsuit marks the second legal action involving Jay-Z and Tony Buzbee. In December 2024, Jay-Z filed a lawsuit against Buzbee in Los Angeles, accusing him of extortion and defamation. The current lawsuit underscores the ongoing legal battle between the parties, with Jay-Z seeking damages for the harm caused to his personal and professional life.
As the case progresses, it highlights the complexities and challenges inherent in high-profile legal disputes, particularly those involving serious allegations and counterclaims of defamation.
Note: The information presented is based on available reports as of March 4, 2025. Legal proceedings are ongoing, and further developments may arise.
