Pras Michel has filed a lawsuit against fellow Fugees bandmate Lauryn Hill, accusing her of fraud and breach of contract following the cancellation of their 2023 reunion tour. The lawsuit, submitted in Manhattan’s Southern District, paints a picture of intense conflict among members of the iconic 1990s hip-hop group, known for hits like “Killing Me Softly” and “Fu-Gee-La.”
Michel’s complaint alleges that Hill mismanaged the band’s finances and attempted to “usurp control” of its business operations and trademark. One key accusation is that Hill rejected a $5 million offer for the group, which also includes Wyclef Jean, to perform at the 2024 Coachella festival.
The lawsuit also criticizes Hill for her “chronic tardiness” to performances and claims she abruptly canceled the second half of the 2023 reunion tour. Michel further alleges that Hill “financially penalized and defrauded” him. His legal team stated that “Ms. Hill exploited Mr. Michel’s vulnerable legal situation, manipulating him into an unfair agreement for The Fugees’ 2023 reunion tour.”
The lawsuit comes amid Michel’s own legal troubles. In 2023, he was found guilty of being involved in a billion-dollar political finance scandal linked to Malaysia.
Hill, in response to the lawsuit, has labeled the claims as “baseless” and filled with “false claims and unwarranted attacks.” In a statement provided to AFP, she asserted, “It notably omits that he was advanced overpayment for the last tour and has failed to repay substantial loans extended by myself as an act of goodwill.”
While Hill is set to embark on a European tour this fall under the banner of “Ms. Lauryn Hill & the Fugees,” Michel’s legal team has confirmed that he will not be joining the tour.
