Biggie Smalls’ Estate Reaches Settlement In World Trade Center Pictures Lawsuit

Some of the most iconic pictures in hip-hop history unsurprisingly belong to one of the genre’s most iconic figures. Moreover, fans of any generation likely know the photos of Biggie Smalls with the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers as their backdrop. Photographer Chi Modu took them in 1996, and said that his lyrics on the song “Juicy” referencing the Towers partly inspired the shoot in Jersey City, New Jersey. However, a 2019 lawsuit from Big’s estate claimed that Modu illegaly licensed the snaps for sold products without respecting his rights. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2021, and thus, the battle turned to estate versus estate.

Furthermore, Billboard reports that Staci Jennifer Trager -– Biggie’s estate’s legal representative in this case -– announced a settlement on Thursday (January 18). While its details are unknown at press time, she explained that the rapper’s children and Modu’s widow came to an agreement. “Pictures of Christopher cannot be commercially exploited without a license from our client,” Trager reportedly remarked to the outlet. “The settlement agreement is a testament to the dedication of our client as well as our team members in staying the course over several years.”

Read More: Biggie Smalls Net Worth 2024: Updated Wealth Of The Legendary Rapper

Biggie Smalls’ World Trade Center Photos

As such, it seems like Modu’s estate will still be able to sell physical and digital prints of the pictures. However, they will not be able to use the images for other products, as suggested by the explanation of the settlement. Of course, this joins a long list of other “legacy items” that the hip-hop community treasures, especially for such an influential and impactful late legend. For example, Biggie’s autographed arrest fingerprints, and those of Tupac Shakur, went on sale for $225K last year.

Meanwhile, as the West Coast icon’s murder case develops with the arrest of alleged culprit Keefe D, folks also claim that the Brooklyn MC’s death is connected. That emerged as a speculative theory long ago, and the mystery that surrounds both cases makes judging it a tough call. Regardless, this settlement shows that his legacy will live on in respectful ways if his estate gets their word in. For more news and the latest updates on Biggie Smalls, stay up to date on HNHH.

Read More: What Is Biggie’s Best-Selling Album?

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Diddy Wasn’t The One To Pay For Cassie Settlement, Legal Expert Theorizes

Though Diddy’s legal battles are far from over, the bombshell suit from Cassie is still the principal point of discussion when it comes to his alleged abhorrent behavior. Moreover, many folks expressed shock, satisfaction, or skepticism when they settled the case, which was quite the suspicious and quick resolution to such a damning accusation. However, in the weeks since, other voices and angles shed some light on this issue and might actually help us understand it a little more. On that note, Houston-based attorney Symone Redwine appeared on the Pour Horsemen podcast on Wednesday (November 29) to explain the possible financing behind this settlement.

“They didn’t sue just Diddy,” Symone Redwine told the show hosts, explaining that there’s a chance that Sean Combs didn’t pay a cent in this explosive, slightly damning, and eyebrow-raising legal development. “They sued his corporations. And they sued his corporations, and sued in her capacity as an employee. When you do that, it triggers commercial liability insurance and it triggers another policy called directors and officers.” Then, she went on to elaborate what the implication of these policies is, and how things maybe weren’t up to Puff Daddy in this case.

Read More: Diddy Loses Charter School Partnership Amid Fallout From Sexual Abuse Lawsuits

Symone Redwine Speaks On Diddy & Cassie Settlement: Watch

“We know he’s the director of the companies as a CEO,” Symone Redwine continued about the Diddy lawsuits. “So now you got two policies. What happens then is, it takes away Puffy’s ability to settle. It’s not his choice no more. So because they added those claims, the corporate insurance carrier got to say, ‘Oh hell no, we’re giving her the money.’” Furthermore, it’s unclear if the lawyer also believes these considerations apply to the multiple other lawsuits against the Bad Boy mogul. Of course, it’s more likely that this is very case-by-case and depends on the codefendants named.

Meanwhile, this news is relevant because it affects how the public truly perceives his accountability in this situation. If the New York music magnate didn’t pay here, then how can we expect to see this settlement as him atoning for his alleged mistakes? What does that mean for what this settlement means as far as his guilt– and how will this affect future legal procedures? Regardless, check back in with HNHH for more news and the latest updates on Diddy and Cassie.

Read More: 50 Cent Says He’s Interested In Buying Revolt After Diddy Steps Down As Chairman

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Alex Jones Sandy Hook Settlement Could Get Significantly Reduced: Details

Alex Jones is someone who has always been extremely controversial. Overall, his controversial ways have gotten him into a whole lot of trouble. Although he has never really cared about his reputation, he still faces consequences for it. For instance, he was sued for his comments about the Sandy Hook massacre. Essentially, Jones tried to say that the whole thing was a hoax and that the parents were crisis actors. It was a horrible thing to say that came with extreme consequences.

Recently, Jones went to trial over his comments. Subsequently, he was hit with a pretty massive penalty. He was essentially ordered to pay the parents over $1 billion. However, he quickly came out and tried to declare bankruptcy in Texas. With that said, it became clear that it would be extremely difficult for any of the families to get their money. According to Hollywood Unlocked, this has led to a new offer that would see Jones spending a whole lot less.

Read More: Alex Jones Slams Kanye West’s “Hitler Fetish”

Alex Jones Back In The Spotlight

 
 
 
 
 
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Essentially, Jones would pay out $85 million, minimum. He would have to pay $8.5 million every year for 10 years. Furthermore, half of every dollar he makes over $9 million would go to the parents. Overall, this is a pretty hefty sum of cash, regardless. However, in Jones’ situation, it is a lot better than the amount that he was going to have to pay out, originally. At the end of the day, his lawyer is still apprehensive, and he has yet to accept the offer.

This is a situation that has been going on for years since he made the original comments. Hopefully, the families finally get some closure. Let us know what you think of all of this, in the comments section down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the world. We will always keep you informed on breaking stories and latest music releases.

Read More: Alex Jones Net Worth 2023: A Deep Dive Into The “Infowars” Owner’s Finances

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Suge Knight Accuses Diddy Of Paying Cassie Off To Avoid Jail Time

Earlier this month, Cassie filed a bombshell lawsuit against her ex Diddy, which came with a long and damning list of allegations. She accused the Bad Boy Records founder of sexual assault, physical and emotional abuse, and more. Only a day after she filed the suit, they reached a settlement. Diddy has maintained his innocence, insisting that the settlement was in no way an admission of guilt.

Now, Suge Knight has spoken on the matter on his podcast Collect Call With Suge Knight, proposing another theory. He claims that the allegations Cassie made against Diddy didn’t come as a surprise to him, even alleging that he was abusive towards other women in the past. Knight recalled Diddy having an assistant named Capricorn, who kept Cassie’s relationship with Kid Cudi under wraps. He alleges that Diddy physically assaulted her when he found out.

Read More: Yung Miami Fans Express More Concern For Her Amid More Diddy Allegations

Suge Knight Weighs In On Diddy And Cassie’s Settlement

Knight continued, recalling a time when Diddy allegedly “beat the sh*t” out of someone from Interscope, and later paid them off to avoid jail. Cassie shared a statement after she reached a settlement with Diddy, claiming that things were handled amicably. “I have decided to resolve this matter amicably on terms that I have some level of control,” she said. “I want to thank my family, fans and lawyers for their unwavering support.”

Diddy shared his own statement with a similar sentiment. “We have decided to resolve this matter amicably,” he said. “I wish Cassie and her family all the best. Love.” Diddy has since been hit with two additional lawsuits from women accusing him of sexual assault. His third accuser alleges that in the early 90s, he and Aaron Hall raped her and her friend, and Diddy later physically assaulted her. Diddy continues to deny all allegations, calling the suits a “money grab” and accusing his alleged victims of exploiting the Adult Survivors Act. What do you think of Suge Knight’s claims about Cassie and Diddy’s settlement? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

Read More: 50 Cent Shows Diddy Compassion Amid Sexual Assault Accusations

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Kanye West Reaches Lawsuit Settlement With Ex-Yeezy Employee Over Wage Issues

Kanye West isn’t just dropping singles for his upcoming Ty Dolla $ign collab album; he’s also taking care of other long-awaited, but much more important business. Moreover, according to AllHipHop, he settled a lawsuit from former Yeezy employee Taliah Leslie. From what legal documents indicate, the details of this development are still under wraps in the public eye, so we don’t know how they agreed on the matter. For those unaware, back in 2021, Leslie accused the rapper and various company executives of breaking California labor law in matters of employee classification and benefits. After a long battle in court, it seems like this is one less legal headache for Ye.

Furthermore, the alleged violation of these regulations stems from how Yeezy supposedly classified Leslie’s employment status incorrectly. She alleged that higher-ups, including Kanye, restricted employees from certain wages and benefits by inaccurately classifying them as independent contractors. In addition, he allegedly refused to cover obligatory travel to and from Wyoming and France. Other things that the Chicago native failed to reimburse Leslie for, given her claims, are phone bills, Internet bills, and other trip expenses that she needed to spend in order to do her job. This is not the only lawsuit against Kanye from a former employee.

Read More: Bianca Censori’s Outfits During Kanye West Relationship Aren’t Impressing Her Family

Kanye West At The Yeezy Season 3 Show In 2016

Kanye West Settlement Lawsuit Ex Employee Yeezy Hip Hop News
NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 11: Kanye West performs during Kanye West Yeezy Season 3 on February 11, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Yeezy Season 3)

Unfortunately for him, this is but a small footnote in the long list of trouble, legal action, and controversy that he must deal with these days. Most recently, that manifested in Kanye West’s apparent altercations with Harley Pasternak, which was one of the oddest stories to come out so far this week. Time will tell whether he’s able to knock off all of these one by one or if other lawsuits will prove more difficult to dismiss. But not even that could change much; after all, the 46-year-old’s return to the public eye hasn’t been the most acclaimed of comebacks.

This reality, paired with other lawsuits concerning Donda Academy and many more, signifies an uphill battle. Perhaps he will turn things around for himself in 2024. Ye has a lot to prove, a lot to repent for, but plenty of resources to fix his wrongs and hopefully learn something in the process. On that note, come back to HNHH for the latest news and updates on Kanye West.

Read More: Kanye West Once “Saved” A Dancer From Sexual Harassment

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Cassie Appears Carefee In 1st Public Sighting Since Diddy Settlement

Cassie appeared to be in good spirits in the first public photographs taken since settling her recent bombshell lawsuit against Diddy. Page Six published the pictures, which show her walking around her hometown of New London, Connecticut on Monday afternoon. She’s rocking a gray sweatshirt, with matching sweatpants and sneakers. For the walk, she brought along her 3-year-old daughter Frankie.

The pictures come after the outlet also caught Diddy for the first time since the lawsuit, earlier this week. The Bad Boy mogul appeared in much worse shape, looking stressed and hiding his face in his hands.

Read More: Diddy Looks Distraught In New Photos After Settling Cassie Lawsuit

Cassie & Diddy Attend Big Sean’s Concert

HOLLYWOOD, CA – FEBRUARY 25: Cassie Ventura (L) and Sean “Diddy” Combs attend Big Sean’s concert hosted by Revolt TV to celebrate his new album ‘Dark Sky Paradise’ at Hollywood & Highland Courtyard on February 25, 2015 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Chelsea Lauren/Getty Images)

Cassie filed the lawsuit against Diddy, last week, accusing him of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Less than 24 hours later, the two settled. “I have decided to resolve this matter amicably on terms that I have some level of control,” Cassie wrote in a statement afterward. “I want to thank my family, fans and lawyers for their unwavering support.” In his own statement, Diddy added: “We have decided to resolve this matter amicably. I wish Cassie and her family all the best. Love.”

Regardless of the settlement, Diddy’s lawyer, Ben Brafman, says his client is not guilty. He wrote: “Just so we’re clear, a decision to settle a lawsuit, especially in 2023, is in no way an admission of wrongdoing. Mr. Combs‘ decision to settle the lawsuit does not in any way undermine his flat-out denial of the claims. He is happy they got to a mutual settlement and wishes Ms. Ventura the best.” As for the latest photos of Cassie, we’re not permitted to post the images here directly, but if you’d like to see them, you can do so by clicking the “Via” link below. Be on the lookout for further updates on Diddy and Cassie on HotNewHipHop.

Read More: Diddy’s Lawyer Denies Wrongdoing Despite Cassie Lawsuit Settlement

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50 Cent Addresses Diddy & Cassie Settlement, Says He Wanted To Take Fif Shopping

50 Cent and Diddy’s strained relationship is one of New York’s pillars when it comes to the dynamics of their hip-hop landscape. Of course, since the former is such a troll, it feels like anything that the latter does eventually falls under his scrutiny. This case was much more serious, as it related to Cassie’s accusations of sexual and physical abuse against the Bad Boy mogul. While they reached a settlement very quickly, the G-Unit MC doesn’t think that this is the end of Sean Combs’ public retribution. Moreover, he took to Instagram to share his thoughts on this development and suggest what could follow it.

“LOL,” 50 Cent bluntly began his post’s caption, which was a screenshot of a news story covering Diddy’s settlement. “He paid that money real quick, should have done that before the sharks saw the blood in the water. And here they come in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 every woman he ever put his hand on.” This assessment is actually true in some ways, as this bombshell case caused many to dig up other confessions from Puff Daddy’s previous partners and a more critical look at his current circle.

Read More: Yung Miami Trends Amid Diddy Accusations, Fans Want Her Far Away From Him

50 Cent Reacts To Settlement In Sean Combs’ Case

In fact, one of these resurfaced comments about Diddy came straight from 50 Cent himself, although it’s more of a bizarre story. During an old interview, presumably a Drink Champs appearance, he told the alleged story of how Diddy once told him that he wanted to take him shopping. It’s unclear if the Queens rapper just thought that this was bizarre or if he took it as an invitation for him to be groomed or to be shown more than a good time. Still, it’s such a chaotic clip that it’s clear they didn’t think much of it in the moment, but Fif’s humor didn’t get in the way of him warning folks that Combs isn’t who he seems to be.

Fif’s Old Claim About Diddy Suggesting A Shopping Trip

Meanwhile, there’s also been a lot of conversation around the Love Album: Off The Grid artist’s alleged role in the death of Tupac. To no one’s surprise, 50 is pushing a lot of this narrative, too. We’ll see if his prediction that this will result in a wave of backlash and accountability turns out to be true. On that note, stay logged into HNHH for the latest news and updates on Diddy, Cassie, and 50 Cent.

Read More: 50 Cent Won’t Face Charges For Mic-Throwing Incident During Concert: Report

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Megan Thee Stallion Settles 1501 Entertainment Lawsuit After Years Of Battling Label

After over three years of litigation, Megan Thee Stallion finally reached a private settlement in her case against her former record label, 1501 Certified Entertainment. Moreover, she sued the company for an “unconscionable” record deal, alleging that they blocked new releases and failed to support her as they were contractually obligated to. Legal representatives for 1501 announced on Thursday (October 19) that they finally came to a compromise with the Houston rapper. According to these attorneys, they “mutually reached a confidential settlement to resolve their legal differences” and will “amicably part ways.” No matter how you slice it, this is a long-awaited and necessary resolution to this conflict.

Furthermore, 1501 Certified Entertainment elaborated a bit further on their feelings about this settlement with her. “Both Megan and 1501 are pleased to put this matter behind them and move forward with the next chapter of their respective businesses,” they stated. In addition, the statement included a remark from label president Carl Crawford. “[We] wish Megan the very best in her life and career,” he expressed. However, as of writing this article, it’s still unknown what specific considerations went into Megan Thee Stallion’s settlement, including whether there was any monetary exchange or other legal or contractual stipulations.

Read More: Megan Thee Stallion Marks The Chilling Start Of “Act One”

Megan Thee Stallion At The 2023 MTV VMAs

Megan Thee Stallion 1501 Label Lawsuit Settle Hip Hop News
NEWARK, NEW JERSEY – SEPTEMBER 12: Megan Thee Stallion attends the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards at Prudential Center on September 12, 2023 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Taylor Hill/Getty Images)

For those unaware, the “Bongos” MC accused 1501 Certified Entertainment of roping her into an imbalanced record deal in 1028 as a young artist. Apparently, this was far from the industry standard when it comes to artist freedom and financial considerations. Megan Thee Stallion maintains that a Roc Nation management deal in 2019 opened her eyes to the “cr*zy” nature of the agreement thanks to the assistance of “real lawyers.” Since then, multiple other complaints emerged, such as 1501 not counting projects as albums (which affects the terms of her deal) and that the label mishandled royalties and charged excessive amounts for marketing and promotion.

Meanwhile, even though a judge ruled in December that this required a jury trial for resolution, it looks like that’s no longer the case. The 28-year-old artist even hinted at this settlement during a recent Instagram Live session. “I have no label right now,” she expressed. For more news and the latest updates on Megan Thee Stallion, keep checking in with HNHH.

Read More: Megan Thee Stallion’s Mental Health Campaign For Seize The Awkward Shows Her Strength

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ASAP Rocky & ASAP Relli In “Early Discussions” Of Possible Lawsuit Settlement: Report

ASAP Rocky is reportedly in “early discussions” of a possible settlement in the lawsuit ASAP Relli filed against him regarding an altercation in November 2021, according to Radar Online. For the incident, prosecutors claimed he shot his former friend to which Rocky pleaded not guilty. They charged him with two counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm.

“Discharging a gun in a public place is a serious offense that could have ended with tragic consequences not only for the person targeted but also for innocent bystanders visiting Hollywood,” Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said. “My office conducted a thorough review of the evidence in this case and determined that the addition of a special firearm allegation was warranted.” Afterward, Relli sued Rocky for assault, battery, intentional affliction of emotional distress, and negligence.

Read More: ASAP Rocky & Earl Sweatshirt Hit Up The Alchemist’s Home Studio

ASAP Rocky Performs At Gov. Ball

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 25: A$AP Rocky performs onstage during the 2021 Governors. Ball Music Festival at Citi Field on September 25, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Taylor Hill/Getty Images for Governors Ball)

In response to the lawsuit, Rocky’s attorney, Joe Tacopina accused Relli of trying to extort his client. “It was an extortion attempt by a former associate, who threatened to make false criminal accusations if Rocky didn’t pay him,” he told multiple outlets, as noted by AllHipHop. After the comments, Relli filed a second lawsuit against Rocky and his lawyer, accusing them of defamation. Speaking with Rolling Stone, Tacopina added that the decision would backfire: “It will expose the fraud committed by their client. It’s unfortunate that these lawyers don’t know the facts of this case or the actions of their client, but I will be happy to educate them.” For the defamation lawsuit, Relli hired Johnny Depp’s lawyer, Camille Vasquez, from his own case with Amber Heard.

Rocky will appear in court for a preliminary hearing in his criminal case on November 8. Be on the lookout for further updates on the lawsuit as well as Rocky’s criminal case on HotNewHipHop.

Read More: A$AP Rocky & A$AP Relli Pause Civil Lawsuit Over 2021 Shooting

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Dwayne Haskins’ Widow Settles Lawsuit Against Dump Truck Driver

Kalabrya Haskins, the widow of late NFL quarterback Dwayne Haskins, has settled a lawsuit against the owner and driver of the dump truck that struck and killed Haskins in Florida in April 2022. Haskins was in Florida for a bonding camp with his new Steelers teammates. However, he was killed when he was struck by a truck while attempting to cross I-595. A lawsuit filed in March 2023 against the driver of the truck, as well as the company that owned the truck, alleged that the truck was speeding, was being driven carelessly, and was over the legal weight limit. The lawsuit also named the Florida Department of Transportation, a rental car company that had leased a vehicle to Haskins, and the contractor for the signage on I-595.

Through a statement made by her lawyer, Haskins said that the estate had settled their suits against the dump truck driver and the company that the truck was owned by as well as “various other parties”. However, the statement also noted that “the case continues to proceed in Broward County Circuit Court against multiple other defendants.”

Read More: Colin Cowherd appears to forget Dwayne Haskins is dead while naming QBs who can’t win a Super Bowl

Haskins Estate Still Pursuing Conspiracy Angle

The other cases referenced are ones brought about in regard to claims that Haskins’ death was the result of a malicious conspiracy. His estate has accused a range of people of planning to drug and rob the NFL player. The aforementioned March lawsuit lists four individuals, two restaurants, a driving range, and a hotel as defendants. More specifically, the lawsuit alleges that Haskins was the victim of a blackmail and robbery conspiracy. The suit alleges that a group of four individuals drugged and robbed Haskins in the hours prior to his death.

No charges have been filed in relation to those claims, or any aspect of Haskins’ death. As mentioned by the estate’s statement, the lawsuits relating to the blackmail conspiracy remain ongoing. Haskins was drafted 15th overall in 2019 but failed to leave a positive impression on the then-Washington Football Team. He was released after the 2020 season and signed with the Steelers in January 2021. Haskins remained inactive for all but one game of the 2021 season. However, he was named the backup to Mitch Trubisky a month before his death in March 2022.

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