Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Kim Kardashian

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 16, 2026

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Kim Kardashian.

Kim Kardashian is a prominent American media personality, socialite, and businesswoman who rose to international fame through the reality television series Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Beyond her television career, she has leveraged her massive social media influence to establish a highly successful business empire. Her ventures include the shapewear brand SKIMS and her former beauty line, KKW Beauty, both of which have achieved significant market success. Kardashian is also recognized for her transition into legal advocacy, focusing on criminal justice reform. As a defining figure of 21st-century pop culture, she has transformed her public image from a reality star into a formidable entrepreneur and global fashion icon. Her ability to navigate digital media and monetize her personal brand has cemented her status as one of the most influential figures in contemporary entertainment.

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Full Timeline Controversies & Scandals

2003: Creation of sex tape

In 2003, Kim Kardashian and singer Ray J recorded a sex tape that would later become the subject of significant public and legal controversy in 2007.

2004: Allegations of Unauthorized Credit Card Charges

In 2004, Sonja Norwood alleged that Kim, Khloé, and Kourtney Kardashian incurred over $120,000 in unauthorized charges on her American Express card.

2006: Continued Unauthorized Boutique Charges

During 2006, Sonja Norwood alleged that the Kardashians continued to make unauthorized charges at their family-owned boutique, long after Kim's employment with Brandy had ended.

February 2007: Leak of Kim Kardashian, Superstar sex tape

In February 2007, a 2003 sex tape involving Kim Kardashian and Ray J was leaked online, sparking national attention and a legal battle against Vivid Entertainment, which eventually ended in a multi-million dollar settlement.

2007: Media Attention and Reality TV Debut

In 2007, Kim Kardashian rose to significant public attention following the unauthorized release of a sex tape featuring Ray J. That same year, she and her family premiered on the reality series Keeping Up with the Kardashians.

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2007: Ongoing Boutique Charges

In 2007, the family-owned boutique owned by the Kardashians continued to be the site of alleged unauthorized charges filed by Sonja Norwood against Kim and her sisters.