Drake Defamation Lawsuit Dismissed: Judge Rules in Favor of UMG

In a major blow to Drake’s legal team, the Drake defamation lawsuit dismissed by a federal judge this week. The battle centered around Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us”, in which lyrics accused Drake of being a pedophile — but the court found they were hyperbolic opinion, not factual claims.

Drake’s defamation suit against label over Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ tossed by judge

Drake initially sued Universal Music Group (UMG), claiming they promoted the song knowing it contained false and damaging allegations. His argument hinged on the idea that the label’s actions harmed his reputation and devalued his brand. But with Drake defamation lawsuit dismissed, those claims now stand overruled.

@onlinemagazinenews Drake’s Defamation Lawsuit Against UMG Is Officially DISMISSED! 🚨 #shorts Drake just took a major L in court… The judge officially dismissed his defamation lawsuit — and yes, it’s all connected to Kendrick Lamar’s brutal diss track ‘Not Like Us’. ✅ Don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to our channel for more celebrity updates! What do you think — should Drake drop another diss track, or let the court have the final word? 🤔 Drop your comments below! 💬👇 🌟 To learn more about the latest news, click the link in the bio! #drake #KendrickLamar #notlikeus #lawsuit ♬ original sound – Online Magazine News

The judge, Jeannette A. Vargas, emphasized that randomized and inflammatory lyrics in a rap feud are often understood as opinion, and not to be taken as literal truth. In her ruling, she noted “Not Like Us” was full of figurative language and rhetorical flair — it couldn’t reasonably be read as stating verifiable facts.

Now that the Drake defamation lawsuit dismissed ruling is final in this stage, UMG celebrated the decision as a defense of creative freedom. Meanwhile, Drake’s team has announced plans to appeal. Fans of both artists are watching closely — this is far from the last chapter in their feud.