Former “2 Live Crew” singer sues for defamation
By Pankaj Ladhar of Manos • Alwine P.L.
Last week we shared a story about the University of Miami football team. A number of players allegedly received improper gifts and cash from a supporter who is now accused of running a ponzi scheme. The former wrapper turned mayoral candidate, Luther Campbell, is now suing the allegedly scheming supporter for defamation.
Apparently, the supporter had told a reporter that when he was improperly providing the athletes with gifts and cash he was doing the same thing that Luther Campbell was doing in the 1980s and 1990s. Campbell says that by implying that he had engaged in similar activities, the promoter intended people to believe that Campbell had engaged in the same immoral and illegal activities as the promoter.
Remembering 2 Live Crew at the height of their popularity, it would have been exceedingly difficult to predict that Luther Campbell would someday be in a position where an adverse statement about his character could damage his future professional-political career and his ability to coach high school sports. But as is the case with many athletes and celebrities, their talents are not necessarily constrained to one field of endeavor.
No matter what type of reputation an entertainer decides to construct, as someone who is in the public spotlight an entertainer’s reputation can have a significant impact on their ability to secure and retain employment. When false and derogatory statements are leveled against someone who relies upon their reputation for their livelihood, it can have cause substantial damage to their ability to earn an income.
Source: NBC Miami “Rapper Luther Campbell Suing Miami Booster Nevin Shapiro for Defamation,” Brian Hamacher, Sept. 21, 2011