Jay-Z Seeks Rehearing in Extortion Case After Accuser Recants

Jay-Z's legal team has filed a petition seeking a rare rehearing of his extortion lawsuit against attorney Tony Buzbee. This action follows the accuser's recent admission that her allegations against the rapper were false. The appellate court had previously dismissed Jay-Z's case, ruling there was insufficient evidence that Buzbee knew the claims were false when filed.

However, the accuser's extraordinary recantation, stating she never met Jay-Z and experienced mental health issues, prompted the rapper's attorneys to argue that Buzbee's lawsuit was based on falsehoods. They assert that this new evidence warrants a reversal or, at minimum, a remand for further discovery.

The original lawsuit, filed in December 2024, alleged that Jay-Z and Sean "Diddy" Combs drugged and assaulted a teen in 2000. Jay-Z countersued Buzbee for extortion and defamation, calling the claims a blackmail attempt.

Even if the California appeals court denies the rehearing, Jay-Z will continue pursuing a separate federal lawsuit against Buzbee and other attorneys, alleging malicious prosecution and civil conspiracy. He has dropped the accuser from that federal case.