Rapper Nicki Minaj has sparked widespread controversy after publicly criticizing former CNN journalist Don Lemon, who recently reported on protests in Minnesota. The incident has drawn significant attention, coming in the wake of heated discussions surrounding Lemon's coverage, which previously angered former President Donald Trump.

According to U.S. outlets including TMZ and Entertainment Weekly on January 19 (local time), Minaj published a series of stinging remarks directed at Don Lemon on her social media on January 18. In her post, Minaj mentioned Lemon’s sexual orientation and called him a “disgusting Lemon,” intensifying her criticism.

She went on to say, “How could you do that? That thug should be locked up. They would never do such a thing against another religion. Put him in jail now,” expressing her outrage.

Lemon quickly responded by sharing a video on his own account, in which he cautioned Minaj: “Don’t speak out about things you know nothing about.” He harshly rebuked her, stating, “You’re out of touch with reality and full of homophobic prejudice.”

Lemon didn’t stop there. He further questioned Minaj’s political stance and identity, claiming, “You don’t even care about African Americans,” and, “As far as I know, you’re an illegal immigrant, so according to Donald Trump’s law, you should be deported.”

The controversy originated from a protest at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. Demonstrators gathered to protest the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. Don Lemon, now heading an independent media organization, reported from the scene, which provoked a strong response from former President Trump.

Previously, Nicki Minaj was known for criticizing Donald Trump, but since 2021 she has notably shifted her stance and begun showing support for him. This about-face has led to disappointment among some members of her fanbase, known as the Barbz, with some even launching petitions demanding her deportation—a move that has further fueled the debate.

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=Nicki Minaj account