Trigger warning: This article contains references to assault.
Grammy-nominated rapper Nicki Minaj has been sued by her former tour manager Brandon Garrett for assault, battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The lawsuit, filed on January 3, 2025, in Los Angeles Superior Court, details an alleged confrontation between Minaj and Garrett during the Pink Friday 2 tour in April 2024.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ and Variety, the incident occurred backstage at Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena on April 21, 2024, following Minaj’s concert.
Garrett alleges that Minaj’s head of security, Larry Dathan, called him into her dressing room. The room reportedly contained eight staff members, including Luke Montgomery, who was responsible for tasks such as setting up dressing rooms, hotel rooms and tour buses.
During the meeting, Nicki Minaj was reportedly frustrated with the employees’ roles and responsibilities. She reportedly asked Montgomery to explain her actions. When Montgomery mentioned handling various errands for Minaj, including picking up prescriptions, she reportedly became upset.
Garrett claims Minaj took out her anger on him and accused him of handing Montgomery prescription pickup. According to the complaint, Minaj yelled, “Are you crazy telling him about my prescription?” You’ve lost your f—— mind. If my husband (Kenneth Petty) were here, he would break your f—— teeth. You’re walking like a dead man.”
The lawsuit further alleges that Minaj openly struck Garrett on the right side of his face, causing his head to tilt backward and his hat to fall off.
She also claims he hit her wrist, causing it to beat. Garrett said that after the fight he locked himself in the bathroom for hours and was later informed via text that he was not needed for the next tour.
Garrett filed an official police report in Detroit and is now seeking punitive, exemplary and general damages.
Minaj’s attorney Judd Burstein responded to the claims, saying that no official complaint had been filed at the time. Burstein told TMZ, “If the lawsuit is as reported by TMZ, it is completely false and frivolous. We are confident that the case brought by this former assistant will be resolved expeditiously in Mrs. Petty’s favor.
The lawsuit further increases the scrutiny of Minaj, who is known for her strong public persona. The allegations came during her Pink Friday 2 Tour, one of the most anticipated events of her career. The case is still in its initial stage, no date of hearing has been fixed.
Disclaimer: If you need support or you know someone who is struggling with assault or abuse, please contact your nearest mental health expert, NGO or talk to someone about this. There are many helplines available for this.
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