Cardi B Defends Vybz Kartel Amid Skin Lightening Criticism, Slams Online Trolls
3 min read
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Cardi B has come to the defense of Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel, who has faced a wave of online criticism following his release from prison. The rapper voiced her frustration during a recent X Spaces session, where she called out those mocking Kartel’s appearance and made it clear that she strongly disapproves of the negative comments circulating on social media.
“I do not play about fcking Vybz Kartel,” Cardi B stated emphatically. “When I see y’all fcking Americans… No offense, no offense. I mean, I’m American, but when I see y’all talking about fcking Vybz Kartel, I be getting upset ’cause, like, not too much. Not too fcking much. Mind your fcking business. I do not play about fcking Vybz Kartel, b*tch. At all. At all. I do not, I do not, I do not.”
Cardi B’s passionate defense comes in response to the harsh comments aimed at Vybz Kartel, particularly regarding his lighter skin tone in recent photos. Many online users speculated that Kartel had bleached his skin, but these assumptions ignore the artist’s serious health struggles. Kartel has been diagnosed with Grave’s disease, an autoimmune disorder that can cause the skin to lighten, among other symptoms.
Vybz Kartel, who was sentenced to life in prison for the 2011 murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams, was released on July 31, 2024, after serving 13 years. His release was granted on medical grounds, as his attorneys successfully argued that his condition could be fatal if left untreated. In addition to Grave’s disease, Kartel also suffers from a severe heart condition, further complicating his health.
Following his release, Kartel shared a photo on social media that sparked widespread commentary about his appearance. Beyond his lighter skin, observers noted significant swelling in his face and body. Reports from outlets like FOX5 have highlighted that these physical changes are consistent with the symptoms of Grave’s disease, which can include facial swelling, bulging eyes, and other serious effects.
#JUSTNOW: Cardi B mentioned on Twitter Spaces that she disapproves of the tweets made by Americans about Vybz Kartel. She also warned them, giving them a month to pack it up pic.twitter.com/pme5IVNPpL
— The𝗗𝗼𝗻𝘇 (@DONZMEDIA) August 17, 2024
In June, just before his release, Kartel’s team spoke to Fox 5 about his deteriorating health, describing how his swollen neck prevented him from buttoning his shirt collar and how his condition caused his eyes to protrude. According to the Mayo Clinic, Grave’s disease leads to an overproduction of thyroid hormones, which can result in a range of symptoms, including changes in skin tone, eye problems, and more.
During his trial, human rights attorney Isat Buchanan described the conditions of Kartel’s prison cell as being like a “brick oven,” with almost no ventilation. Buchanan emphasized that without proper treatment, Kartel’s health was at serious risk, to the point where he could have died in his sleep.
St. Vincent pic.twitter.com/hy1cMNc7yN
— Vybz Kartel (@Vybz_Official) August 17, 2024
Since his release, Kartel has spoken about his plans to closely monitor his health and pursue necessary treatments to manage his condition. Meanwhile, Cardi B’s vocal support has earned her praise from fans and social media users who appreciate her standing up for the artist.
As of now, Vybz Kartel has not publicly responded to Cardi B’s remarks during the X Spaces session. However, her strong words underscore the deep respect and admiration she holds for the Jamaican DJ, and her message is clear: everyone should think twice before passing judgment on someone battling serious health issues.
Am out! Me and WIFEY 🍾 pic.twitter.com/UeChSH33Wt
— Vybz Kartel (@Vybz_Official) July 31, 2024
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
