Nicki Minaj Fights Ex-Assistant's Request for Text Messages in Assault Lawsuit

Rapper Nicki Minaj is contesting a request from her former assistant, Brandon Garrett, to hand over text messages and other communications as part of an ongoing lawsuit. Garrett, who previously worked for the singer, is seeking messages related to his role, duties, or performance during his employment from January to April 2024.

Garrett filed a lawsuit in 2025 accusing Minaj of physical and verbal abuse during an incident in her Detroit dressing room in April 2024. He claims Minaj, 43, berated and threatened him before striking him multiple times, resulting in physical injuries and emotional trauma. The lawsuit also includes claims of assault, battery, breach of contract, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Minaj's legal team has denied the allegations and pushed back against Garrett's request for communications. They argue that the demands are "overbroad," "vague and ambiguous," and in some instances, infringe upon third-party privacy or attorney-client privilege. Minaj's representatives stated in January 2025 that the claims were "false and frivolous."

Garrett's filing states that Minaj became upset after he had another employee pick up a prescription for her. According to court documents, Minaj allegedly told Garrett, "You have lost your fing mind and if my husband was here, he would knock out your fing teeth. You're a dead man walking. You just f***ed up your whole life and you will never be anyone, I'll make sure of that."

Minaj, whose full name is Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, also recently garnered attention when President Donald Trump remarked on her appearance at a campaign rally in Port Huron, Michigan. During the rally, Trump urged Minaj to stand up, which she did, and expressed her continued support for him.

Representatives for both parties were contacted for further comment.