Jay-Z’s Defamation Case Against Attorney Tony Buzbee Moves Forward

A Los Angeles judge signals that Jay-Z's defamation lawsuit against Tony Buzbee has merit, while dismissing related extortion claims.

Jay-Z's defamation lawsuit against attorney Tony Buzbee, stemming from allegations of reckless statements in a now-dropped rape case, has been deemed strong enough to proceed to trial by Judge Mark H. Epstein.
The judge tentatively dismissed Jay-Z’s extortion claim, ruling that Buzbee’s demand letters constituted protected litigation activity rather than extortion.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal team has filed motions to block Buzbee from practicing in New York’s Southern District Court, citing repeated violations of local rules and professional misconduct.
Buzbee, representing numerous clients in civil lawsuits against Combs, has been accused of filing cases without proper authorization and making prejudicial public statements about ongoing litigation.
The dismissed rape lawsuit against Jay-Z and Combs, which was withdrawn by the plaintiff earlier this month, cannot be refiled, but its fallout continues to shape legal battles.