NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has addressed the rape allegation against rapper and business mogul Jay-Z, whose company Roc Nation produces the Super Bowl halftime show. Despite the controversy, Goodell stated during a press conference on Wednesday that the NFL’s partnership with Jay-Z remains unchanged.
Jay-Z, who has vehemently denied the allegations, claims they are part of an extortion attempt against him. In a statement, Goodell acknowledged the lawsuit and Jay-Z’s strong denial, reaffirming the NFL’s stance on maintaining their collaboration.
The accusations stem from an amended lawsuit initially filed against Sean “Diddy” Combs, which now includes claims that Jay-Z participated in a sexual assault at an MTV Video Music Awards after-party in 2000, where the alleged victim was 13 years old.
In response to the allegations, Jay-Z released a statement condemning the lawsuit as baseless and part of a blackmail attempt by attorney Tony Buzbee. He denied any wrongdoing and urged the lawyer to file criminal charges rather than civil litigation, highlighting the severity of the claims. Jay-Z also criticized Buzbee for his alleged history of similar tactics, expressing concern for the impact on his family, including his children.
The lawsuit has drawn public attention, with rapper 50 Cent implying on Instagram that the NFL should reconsider Jay-Z’s involvement in the Super Bowl halftime show.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, the NFL and Roc Nation recently extended their partnership, which began in 2019.
