In the latest chapter of a contentious saga, well-known American rapper and actor, Curtis James Jackson, professionally known as 50 Cent has taken legal action against his ex-lover, Daphne Joy, following her public accusations of rape and physical abuse against him.

Filed in Texas on Monday, May 6, 2024, the defamation suit alleges that Joy’s Instagram post, in which she levied the allegations, was a deliberate attempt to besmirch his character and hinder his relationship with their 11-year-old son, Sire.

Court documents obtained by PEOPLE reveal that Joy’s March 28th post detailed her frustration with 50 Cent’s purportedly infrequent visits with their child and accused him of rape and abuse. In response, 50 Cent’s attorney, Reena Jain, asserts that Joy was given ample opportunity to retract her “false and malicious” claims but chose not to, thereby interfering with the father-son relationship.

Joy’s attorney has yet to respond to requests for comment. The filing highlights the timing of Joy’s accusations, which coincided with reports of 50 Cent’s custody battle for Sire, initiated following a lawsuit labeling Joy a “sex worker.” Allegedly, Joy’s retaliatory actions were aimed at damaging 50 Cent’s reputation, business interests, and custody case.

According to the lawsuit, 50 Cent and his legal team provided Joy with multiple chances to rectify her statements, but when she failed to do so, legal action became necessary to protect his rights and reputation.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case underscores the complexities of personal relationships, parental rights, and the impact of public allegations on individuals’ lives. Beyond the celebrity spotlight, it prompts broader conversations about accountability, the power dynamics within relationships, and the importance of due process in addressing serious accusations.