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Cardi B recently came to the defense of dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel after he faced online criticism over his appearance, which has been heavily impacted by his battle with Graves’ disease. The rapper, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, has been fighting the autoimmune disorder, which affects the thyroid and can lead to symptoms such as bulging eyes, weight loss, and skin discoloration. These visible changes, compounded by his lengthy imprisonment, have made Kartel the subject of scrutiny, particularly on social media.
Vybz Kartel, known for his influence in the dancehall scene with hits like “Clarks” and “Fever,” was recently released from prison after his murder conviction was overturned, ending over a decade behind bars. His health deteriorated significantly during his time in prison, where he was often kept in solitary confinement and denied proper medical care.
Following his release, Kartel’s appearance sparked rumors and criticisms, with some speculating that he had bleached his skin. Cardi B, a longtime fan of Kartel, addressed these criticisms during an X Spaces session, where she expressed her frustration with the negative comments. “I do not play about Vybz Kartel… Not too much. Mind your f-cking business,” Cardi B remarked, urging people to be more understanding of his health condition.
In response to the attention on his appearance, Kartel has remained resilient. He has been vocal about his focus on recovery and has plans to seek specialized treatment for his Graves’ disease in St. Vincent,Cuba, or Switzerland. Despite the challenges, Kartel continues to engage with his fans, sharing updates about his health and expressing his gratitude for their support.
Cardi B’s defense highlights the importance of empathy, especially when public figures face health challenges. As Kartel works towards regaining his health, he remains a significant figure in the music industry, with his fans and fellow artists rallying behind him during this critical time.
