Lauryn Hill Faces Fraud Lawsuit from Fugees Bandmate Pras Michel Over Tour Disputes
Pras Michel, former Fugees member, has filed a federal lawsuit against bandmate Lauryn Hill, alleging fraud and breach of contract regarding their canceled 2023 tour.
Lauryn Hill performing on stage
Michel's lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of New York, claims Hill "grossly mismanaged" the tour's planning, marketing, and budgeting. Despite most arena shows being sold out in advance, Michel alleges he received no compensation due to Hill's control over the tour budget.
Key allegations in the lawsuit include:
- Hill took 40% of tour guarantees and profits "off the top," with the remaining 60% split between Hill, Michel, and Wyclef Jean
- Hill rejected a $5 million Coachella offer without consulting other members
- The tour budget was intentionally inflated with unnecessary expenses
- Hill entered into undisclosed agreements with Live Nation for additional shows
- Poor marketing led to decreased ticket sales
The tour ended prematurely in November when Hill cited vocal strain. Michel suggests Hill exploited his financial situation, knowing he needed funds for his ongoing legal battle with the US Department of Justice in the Jho Low case.
Hill has dismissed the lawsuit as "baseless" and "full of false claims" in a statement to Variety. The suit also mentions Hill's "chronic tardiness" at performances, including a recent four-hour delay at a show in Nairobi, Kenya, which allegedly damaged the Fugees brand.
Smash Mouth band performing live onstage
Auckland cityscape with boats at sunset