From Diddy to Blake Lively: The Celebrity Court Cases That Defined 2025
The year 2025 proved to be one of the most dramatic years in Hollywood legal history, with headline-making verdicts, viral courtroom moments, and ongoing celebrity lawsuits that captivated the public.
A$AP Rocky Found Not Guilty in Hollywood Shooting Trial
One of the most closely watched trials of the year ended in a major victory for A$AP Rocky. The rapper was found not guilty on two felony assault charges related to a 2021 shooting incident in Hollywood.
As the verdict was read, emotions ran high. A visibly relieved A$AP Rocky leapt over the courtroom barrier to embrace Rihanna, who was pregnant at the time. The moment quickly went viral, symbolizing the end of a long and stressful legal battle for the artist.
Cardi B Wins $24 Million Lawsuit—and the Internet Loses It
Another courtroom victory belonged to Cardi B, who was sued for $24 million by a security guard who alleged she assaulted him. The case made headlines not only for the staggering amount but also for Cardi’s unforgettable courtroom testimony.
Her blunt, humorous responses—including clarifying that her ever-changing hairstyles were wigs—sparked viral clips and even inspired a new “courtroom edition” album cover. Ultimately, Cardi was found not liable for assault.
After the verdict, she thanked her legal team and supporters, while issuing a warning to future plaintiffs: any frivolous lawsuits against her would be met with aggressive countersuits.
Blake Lively vs. Justin Baldoni: A Legal Battle Still Unfolding
Not all celebrity cases reached a resolution in 2025. The lawsuit between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni remains ongoing.
Lively first filed suit in 2024, accusing Baldoni—director and co-star of It Ends With Us—of sexual harassment on set, as well as orchestrating a coordinated public relations campaign against her following the allegations. Baldoni has denied all claims.
While Blake has already completed her deposition, the case is far from over, with a trial scheduled for next year. The lawsuit continues to generate intense public interest and industry debate.
Sean “Diddy” Combs: The Biggest Trial of 2025
The most consequential trial of the year involved Sean “Diddy” Combs, whose legal downfall dominated headlines.
Arrested in September 2024, the music mogul faced five federal charges, including sex trafficking, transportation for prostitution, and racketeering. The trial began in May 2025 and lasted eight weeks, featuring testimony from 34 witnesses—including his former girlfriend, singer Cassie Ventura.
In the end, Combs was convicted on two of the five counts and sentenced in October to 50 months in federal prison. Though he has filed an appeal, he is currently scheduled for release in June 2028.
Menendez Brothers Denied Parole Once Again
Nearly three decades after the brutal murders of their parents, Lyle and Erik Menendez returned to the spotlight in 2025. Despite arguments that the brothers had accepted responsibility for their actions, parole was denied.
They were re-sentenced to 50 years in prison, though they will be eligible to apply for parole again in three years—keeping public interest in the case alive.
Late-Night Television in Turmoil
Legal drama wasn’t confined to courtrooms. The entertainment world was rocked by major shakeups in late-night television.
CBS abruptly canceled Stephen Colbert’s The Late Show, sparking backlash and speculation. Shortly after, Jimmy Kimmel Live! was temporarily suspended by ABC following controversial on-air remarks related to a high-profile death.
After five turbulent days, Kimmel returned to television with an emotional apology, clarifying that he never intended to make light of violence or tragedy.
The Coldplay Kiss Cam Scandal That Took Over the Internet
Not every viral moment involved a courtroom. During a Coldplay concert in Boston, frontman Chris Martin unknowingly triggered one of the biggest pop culture moments of the year when the kiss cam revealed a couple later rumored to be married to other people.
The incident sparked endless memes, celebrity reenactments—including by Sofia Richie Grainge—and even jokes from fellow musicians like Luke Bryan, who leaned into the scandal during his own concerts.
A Year Hollywood Won’t Soon Forget
From emotional verdicts to unresolved lawsuits and viral scandals, 2025 proved that celebrity culture and the legal system are more intertwined than ever. As several high-profile cases continue into the next year, one thing is certain: Hollywood’s courtroom drama is far from over.
