Major Controversies Surrounding Cardi B: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Cardi B—discover key moments of controversy.

Cardi B, born Belcalis Marlenis Cephus, is a highly successful American rapper renowned for her candid public persona and lyrical content. She initially garnered attention between 2015 and 2017 through her presence on Vine and Instagram, followed by her role on VH1's Love & Hip Hop: New York. During this period, she also released two mixtapes, further solidifying her presence in the music industry.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

2016: Past as a Stripper

In 2016, Cardi B admitted that when working as a stripper, she used to drug and rob men for their money.

May 2018: Response to 'Girls' Controversy

In May 2018, after the release of "Girls," where she had a featured verse, Cardi B responded to accusations of the song trivializing LGBT relationships, stating they never intended harm and that she had experiences with other women.

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September 2018: Altercation with Nicki Minaj

In September 2018, Cardi B sparked controversy after throwing one of her high heel shoes at and attempting to physically attack fellow rapper Nicki Minaj at a New York Fashion Week after-party.

October 1, 2018: Accusation of Assault

On October 1, 2018, Cardi B was accused of an alleged assault on two female bartenders, who claimed that Cardi B and her entourage "threw bottles and alcohol at them."

December 7, 2018: Court Arraignment

On December 7, 2018, Cardi B appeared in court for her arraignment regarding the alleged assault of two female bartenders after missing the originally scheduled date.

June 21, 2019: Indictment on 14 Charges

On June 21, 2019, Cardi B was indicted by a jury on 14 charges, including two counts of felony assault with intent to cause serious physical injury, stemming from the incident involving the bartenders.

June 25, 2019: Arraignment and Not Guilty Plea

On June 25, 2019, Cardi B was arraigned and pleaded not guilty to all charges related to the alleged assault incident.

2019: Controversy and Defense

Following controversies in 2019 regarding her past actions, Cardi B defended herself, stating she did what she had to do to survive.

March 2020: "Coronavirus" goes viral

In March 2020, Cardi B created a reaction video about the coronavirus pandemic. DJ iMarkkeyz created a track, based on her reaction titled "Coronavirus", which became an internet meme and was released to music platforms.

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September 15, 2022: Guilty Plea and Sentencing

On September 15, 2022, Cardi B pleaded guilty to third-degree assault and second-degree reckless endangerment, resulting in a sentence of 15 days of community service.

July 2023: Microphone Throwing Incident

In July 2023, Cardi B threw her microphone into the crowd at a Las Vegas concert after a fan threw a liquid at her. Although a fan attempted to press charges, the Clark County Police Department decided not to move forward with the case.