Tasha K, a prominent YouTube personality known for her celebrity gossip channel “UNWINEWITHTASHAK,” has been granted a structured payment plan to address the $3.9 million defamation judgment awarded to rapper Cardi B. This resolution follows a protracted legal battle that began in 2019 when Cardi B accused Tasha K, born Latasha Kebe, of disseminating false and damaging statements about her.
Origins of the Defamation Lawsuit
In 2019, Cardi B initiated legal action against Tasha K, alleging that the YouTuber had made defamatory remarks suggesting the rapper engaged in illicit drug use and had contracted multiple sexually transmitted infections. Cardi B testified that these allegations led to significant emotional distress, including anxiety and depression. The jury sided with Cardi B in 2022, awarding her $1.25 million in general damages and an additional $2.8 million in punitive damages and legal fees, totaling approximately $3.9 million.
Tasha K’s Bankruptcy Filing
Facing the substantial financial judgment, Tasha K filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. This legal move aimed to reorganize her debts and establish a feasible repayment plan. Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows individuals or businesses to restructure their financial obligations while continuing operations. Tasha K’s bankruptcy filing listed assets and liabilities, highlighting her inability to pay the full judgment immediately.
Approval of the Payment Plan
A bankruptcy judge has approved a payment plan that permits Tasha K to satisfy the $3.9 million judgment over time. The plan outlines that Tasha K will make monthly installments, starting at $176,532 in the first year and increasing to $318,653 by the fifth year. This structured approach enables her to manage her financial obligations without resorting to liquidation of assets. Additionally, Tasha K is required to submit copies of her tax returns to Cardi B’s legal team and file quarterly income reports with the court to ensure transparency and compliance with the repayment schedule.
Non-Disparagement Clause
As part of the settlement, Tasha K has agreed to a non-disparagement clause. This provision prohibits her from making any further derogatory, disparaging, or defamatory remarks about Cardi B or her family across all platforms, including her YouTube channels and social media accounts. This measure aims to prevent the recurrence of harmful content and protect Cardi B’s reputation moving forward.
Statements from Legal Representatives
Cardi B’s attorney, Lisa Moore, expressed satisfaction with the resolution, stating, “We are thrilled to put in place such an incredibly unprecedented and protective plan for Cardi.” She emphasized that the agreement ensures accountability and prevents further deceptive practices.
Tasha K’s legal team also acknowledged the settlement’s significance. Her attorney, Chad Van Horn, commented, “By reaching this agreement, all parties can avoid prolonged litigation—fulfilling bankruptcy’s essential purpose. This resolution also enables Ms. Kebe to focus on her work while repaying creditors in an organized manner.”
Implications for Content Creators
This case serves as a cautionary tale for content creators about the legal responsibilities associated with their platforms. Disseminating unverified or false information can lead to severe legal consequences, including substantial financial penalties and reputational harm. The outcome underscores the importance of adhering to ethical standards and verifying facts before publishing content, especially when it pertains to individuals’ personal lives.