Challenges in the Life of Nicki Minaj in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 22, 2026

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Nicki Minaj. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Nicki Minaj, born Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, is a highly influential Trinidadian rapper, singer, and songwriter. Recognized as the "Queen of Rap," she's celebrated for her unique rap flow, clever lyrics, versatility, and use of alter egos. Minaj is widely credited with spearheading the revival of female rap's popularity in mainstream music from the 2010s onward.

Sections (7)

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

December 1987: Arson Incident

In December 1987, Nicki Minaj's father, who was an alcoholic and crack cocaine addict, committed arson on their house.

1995: Husband's Conviction

In 1995, Kenneth Petty, Nicki Minaj's husband, was convicted of attempted rape at age 16, serving four years in prison and registering as a sex offender upon release.

March 29, 2010: Release of Massive Attack

On March 29, 2010, Nicki Minaj released "Massive Attack" featuring Sean Garrett, which was intended as the lead single from her debut album Pink Friday but was later dropped due to poor commercial performance.

2011: Cousin Nicholas Telemaque's Murder

In 2011, Nicki Minaj's cousin, Nicholas Telemaque, was murdered near his home in Brooklyn. This event was later referenced in her songs "All Things Go" and "Champion".

February 2020: Husband's Indictment

In February 2020, Kenneth Petty was indicted for failing to update his residence on the sex offender registry after moving to California; he registered in the state's database by the following month.

August 2021: Lawsuit Filed Against Couple

In August 2021, Jennifer Hough, Petty's accuser, filed a lawsuit against Nicki Minaj and Kenneth Petty alleging harassment, intimidation, and emotional distress. Hough eventually dismissed the case against Minaj.

2021: Father Robert Maraj's Death

In 2021, Nicki Minaj's father, Robert Maraj, was killed in a hit-and-run accident in Long Island. Charles Polevich was charged with leaving the scene of an incident involving death and tampering with evidence.

April 2024: Alleged Assault on Tour Employee

In April 2024, while working on her Pink Friday 2 tour, Nicki Minaj allegedly struck Brandon Garrett, a day-to-day manager, multiple times. He claimed he was then informed by Minaj's former manager that he would not be joining the tour for their next date. Minaj's lawyer denied the allegations.

May 25, 2024: Detained at Amsterdam Airport

On May 25, 2024, Nicki Minaj was detained at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, Netherlands, after marijuana was found in her luggage. She was boarding a plane to perform a concert in Manchester, England, and was fined and released the same day.

January 2025: Lawsuit Filed by Former Tour Employee

In January 2025, Brandon Garrett, a former tour employee, filed a lawsuit against Nicki Minaj alleging assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.