Why Is Cardi B in Court? 2025 Security Guard Lawsuit Trial Explained

Cardi B—global rap superstar and social media icon—has found herself at the center of a headline-grabbing civil lawsuit in 2025, drawing intense public interest not just because of the staggering $24 million claim, but also due to dramatic courtroom moments, her personal life, and her viral fashion statements.

Background: The Lawsuit That Shook Hollywood

The saga began in 2020, when security guard Emani Ellis filed a lawsuit against Cardi B (real name: Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar) for alleged assault, emotional distress, negligence, and false imprisonment. Ellis claims that in 2018, outside a Beverly Hills medical office, Cardi B scratched her face with a fingernail, spat on her, and used racial slurs during an altercation.

According to Ellis, the incident occurred after Cardi suspected the security guard was secretly recording her on a cellphone while she was heading to a pregnancy-related appointment—a time when Cardi’s pregnancy had not yet been made public. Ellis alleges Cardi used her celebrity status to get her fired and even destroyed surveillance footage. As a result, Ellis says she has required ongoing psychological and medical treatment.

Cardi B has fiercely denied all accusations, insisting the dispute was strictly verbal and that she never physically touched Ellis. Cardi also claims Ellis was invading her privacy, trying to film her during a vulnerable moment.

Courtroom Drama: Testimonies and Viral Moments

On August 25-26, 2025, Cardi B appeared in court, facing off against Ellis in a tense, widely watched trial. Social media erupted as clips of Cardi’s testimony circulated:

Cardi described Ellis as the aggressor, following her down the hallway and attempting to record her.

“Why are you following me, trying to sneak footage?” Cardi demanded.
Ellis replied, “Because I can.”
Cardi shot back, “No, you can’t!”

Cardi recounted that the two stood “chest to chest,” and she yelled:

“B****, get the f*** out of my face!”

She insisted:

“We were screaming at each other, but it never got physical.”

Ellis, meanwhile, testified that she was simply excited to see Cardi B and tried to reassure her she wasn’t telling anyone about the visit, but things quickly escalated.

Cardi B’s Courtroom Fashion Goes Viral

Beyond the legal drama, Cardi B’s courtroom outfits became a sensation online.

Day One: She arrived in a gray fuzzy coat, matching tweed pants, and a Louis Vuitton purse—setting social media abuzz.
Day Two: Cardi switched to a structured white suit with rounded shoulders and wide-leg pants, earning praise for her bold style.

Even Cardi’s wigs became a topic of cross-examination, with the lawyer asking about her ever-changing hair color. Cardi laughed and clarified:

“They’re wigs.”
The lawyer replied, “Well, it’s a good wig today!”

Personal Pressures: Pregnancy and Privacy

At the time of the alleged incident, Cardi B was four months pregnant but had not announced it publicly. The trial shines a spotlight on the unique pressures faced by celebrities, especially women, who must balance privacy, family, and relentless media scrutiny.

Cardi has previously spoken about the challenges of motherhood in the public eye:

“Being a mom is hard. Being a mom in the spotlight is even harder.”

What’s Next? The Stakes Are High

Cardi B’s trial is set to continue on September 2, 2025. If she loses, she could face millions in damages and further damage to her reputation. If she wins, she’ll reinforce her image as a fearless star who doesn’t back down from controversy.

Conclusion: Privacy, Celebrity, and the Price of Fame

This lawsuit isn’t just a legal battle—it’s a reflection of the constant tension between celebrity privacy and public fascination. Cardi B’s courtroom showdown is a reminder that fame comes with its own set of risks, and even the biggest stars aren’t immune to drama.

What do you think about Cardi B’s lawsuit? Should celebrities have more privacy, or is scrutiny part of the deal? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for the latest updates on Cardi B’s trial!

Don’t blink—because in Cardi B’s world, every day could bring a new headline.