Major Controversies Surrounding Ray J: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Ray J—discover key moments of controversy.

Ray J, born William Ray Norwood Jr., is an American R&B singer, songwriter, television presenter, and actor. He's recognized for his music career, television appearances, and being the younger brother of singer Brandy. He has released multiple albums and singles and has also been involved in various business ventures.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

February 2007: Release of Kim Kardashian, Superstar

In February 2007, the pornographic home video Ray J made with Kim Kardashian in 2003, Kim Kardashian, Superstar, was made public.

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April 2007: Settlement of Kim Kardashian, Superstar Lawsuit

In late April 2007, Kim Kardashian dropped her lawsuit regarding ownership of the Kim Kardashian, Superstar tape and settled with Vivid Entertainment for $5 million.

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2007: Co-starring in Kim Kardashian, Superstar

In 2007, Ray J co-starred with Kim Kardashian in the controversial adult film, Kim Kardashian, Superstar.

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September 17, 2011: Altercation with Fabolous

On September 17, 2011, Ray J confronted Fabolous in Las Vegas, allegedly punching him due to offense taken from tweets about Ray J playing his song "One Wish" on a piano at Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s house. Ray J was arrested following the incident. Celebrities including 50 Cent, Mayweather, and Kevin Hart were present.

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April 6, 2013: Release of "I Hit It First"

On April 6, 2013, Ray J released the track "I Hit It First" with Bobby Brackins. The song generated controversy due to its alleged lyrics about Kim Kardashian and Kanye West.

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2013: Release of "I Hit It First"

In 2013, Ray J independently released the single "I Hit It First" (featuring Bobby Brackins), which peaked at number 51 on the chart. The song garnered attention due to its references to his past relationship with Kim Kardashian.

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May 2014: Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's Wedding, Ray J Sends Gift

In May 2014, Kim Kardashian and Kanye West married. Ray J reportedly sent a check totaling his profits from the sex tape as a wedding gift.

May 30, 2014: Arrest at Beverly Wilshire Hotel

On May 30, 2014, at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, Ray J was accused of inappropriately touching a woman. He was asked to leave and allegedly became belligerent, spitting at an officer and damaging a police car during his arrest. Charges included vandalism, resisting arrest, and battery against a police officer. He posted $20,000 bail.

July 21, 2014: Charges Filed

On July 21, 2014, the Los Angeles County district attorney filed charges against Ray J following his arrest at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. A police spokesman announced that his initial hearing would take place on July 25.

July 22, 2014: Criminal Charges

On July 22, 2014, prosecutors announced that Ray J's arrest had resulted in four criminal charges: sexual battery, vandalism of a police car, battery against a police officer, and resisting arrest. The claim included that he willfully touched a woman's "intimate part" for sexual purposes.

August 6, 2014: Police Stop and Investigation

On August 6, 2014, Ray J was stopped by police officers in the San Fernando Valley for allegedly using his cell phone while driving. Ray J claimed he was connecting his Bluetooth. After the incident, the LAPD began an internal affairs investigation into the encounter with the two officers.

January 3, 2017: Ray J Joins Celebrity Big Brother

On January 3, 2017, Ray J joined season 19 of Celebrity Big Brother as a "new star" housemate. He later walked off the show after a week and threatened legal action.

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November 27, 2025: Arrest for Criminal Threat

On November 27, 2025, Ray J was arrested and booked in a Los Angeles-area jail after allegedly making a criminal threat to his estranged wife in his home. The argument was captured on his public livestream. He was released on a $50,000 bail.