The Most Disliked Black Celebs Ever

Public opinion can turn quickly when a headline breaks or a clip goes viral, and some stars have seen careers stall or change course overnight. These examples look at what happened, how the industry responded, and what consequences followed, from lost deals to public apologies and legal outcomes. It’s a snapshot of how modern fame works when controversy hits and how reputations can be rebuilt or reshaped over time.

Will Smith

At the 2022 Academy Awards he struck host Chris Rock onstage during the live broadcast and later won Best Actor. He resigned from the Academy within days as headlines focused on conduct during the show and the organization’s response. The Academy then issued a 10 year ban from attending its events which affected awards season appearances. Several projects paused as studios reassessed release timing and promotional plans.

Ye

He lost major brand partnerships after making a series of public antisemitic remarks across interviews and social platforms. Retailers pulled collaborative products and companies terminated agreements that had generated significant sales. Music streams and radio play fluctuated as platforms and stations weighed audience reactions. Industry events reduced invitations and some venues canceled planned appearances.

Chris Brown

In 2009 he pleaded guilty to felony assault involving Rihanna which led to probation and community labor. Sponsors distanced themselves and several broadcasts removed scheduled performances. International travel and visas occasionally faced scrutiny tied to legal status. Over time he returned to touring while the case remained a frequent reference point in coverage.

Jussie Smollett

In 2019 he reported being the victim of a hate crime and was later charged by Chicago authorities with filing a false police report. Producers removed him from episodes of ‘Empire’ while the case moved through the courts. He was convicted in 2021 and received jail time and probation along with restitution orders. Public discussion centered on credibility, legal appeals, and the show’s handling of his character.

Nick Cannon

In 2020 he faced backlash over remarks on a podcast that were widely criticized as antisemitic. A television network ended a long running relationship and another paused his radio program. He issued apologies, met with community leaders, and completed educational steps that were shared publicly. Some roles were later reinstated while others remained closed.

DaBaby

During a 2021 festival performance he made comments about HIV and LGBTQ people that drew immediate criticism from fans and organizations. Multiple festivals removed him from lineups and brand partnerships were reevaluated. He posted apologies and later removed some statements while releasing new music. Bookings and chart performance shifted as promoters measured audience sentiment.

Travis Scott

After the 2021 Astroworld Festival crowd crush that caused multiple deaths and injuries, investigations reviewed security and planning practices. Lawsuits were filed by attendees and families, creating an extensive legal process. Brands paused campaigns and upcoming performances were canceled or modified. Future shows implemented additional safety measures with heightened scrutiny from local authorities.

Kevin Hart

He stepped down from hosting the 2019 Oscars after old tweets resurfaced and drew criticism. The Academy sought clarification while he addressed the controversy across interviews. He ultimately did not host and focused on film projects already in production. The episode became a case study in how archival posts affect live event roles.

Kyrie Irving

In 2022 he shared a link to a film that contained antisemitic content and initially declined to issue a clear apology. His team suspended him and outlined steps for reinstatement that included education and conversations with community groups. A formal apology followed and he returned after meeting the stated requirements. Sponsorships were affected and some deals ended.

Lizzo

In 2023 several former dancers filed a lawsuit alleging harassment and a hostile work environment during touring. She denied the claims and moved to dismiss parts of the case while legal proceedings continued. Performances and planned appearances drew mixed reactions from fans and organizers. Coverage tracked court filings, public statements, and impacts on touring plans.

R. Kelly

Following years of investigations he was convicted in federal court on racketeering and sex trafficking charges. His label ended its relationship and major platforms adjusted playlisting and recommendations. Tours and public appearances were canceled as legal proceedings continued across jurisdictions. Catalog discussions focused on licensing, royalties, and radio play decisions.

Bill Cosby

Multiple accusations led to a criminal conviction that was later overturned on procedural grounds while civil cases continued. Networks reduced reruns of his shows and institutions rescinded honors and titles. Representation and business relationships ended as court actions advanced. Public events and speaking engagements were sharply curtailed.

Tiger Woods

A 2009 personal scandal led to the loss of several high profile sponsors and a pause from competition. Press conferences and statements outlined personal treatment and a gradual return to tournaments. Performance and public sentiment were tracked closely at major events. New endorsements emerged later with a changed brand profile.

Dave Chappelle

Several comedy specials drew criticism from LGBTQ groups for comments about transgender people. Netflix employees organized a walkout while the company defended artistic freedom and reviewed internal processes. He responded onstage and in statements and continued touring. Venues faced protests and security adjustments while shows moved forward.

Janet Jackson

A Super Bowl halftime incident led to fines, broadcast delays, and reduced radio play for her music. Industry observers later noted a disparity in career impacts between her and others involved in the performance. She issued apologies and shifted focus to touring and new releases. Retrospectives reframed the event’s cultural and corporate aftermath years later.

Michael Vick

A federal investigation into a dogfighting ring resulted in prison time and league suspension. Sponsors terminated deals and merchandise was pulled from stores. He returned to the NFL after reinstatement with conditions. Public response remained divided as he supported animal welfare initiatives.

Azealia Banks

Frequent social media conflicts and slurs led to dropped festival slots and brand distancing. She faced platform suspensions and public apologies over multiple incidents. Music releases moved primarily through independent channels. Media coverage emphasized online disputes over chart activity.

T.I.

Comments about his daughter’s personal life prompted strong criticism and sponsor reviews. He apologized and clarified statements in interviews and online posts. A television series paused production while the controversy unfolded. He continued music and business ventures as the show reassessed its plans.

Doja Cat

Online chat room allegations and accusations of insensitive lyrics led to trending boycotts. She denied some claims and apologized for others while canceling a planned tour appearance. Brand and festival partners reassessed plans as social metrics swung rapidly. Later releases restored chart momentum as controversies receded.

Share your thoughts in the comments about which other high profile backlash stories you think should be included.