STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

Dancehall Artist Vybz Kartel’s Murder Conviction Overturned

A decade later, the ruling follows Kartel's conviction and life sentence for the murder of Clive "Lizard" Williams.

In 2014, Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Azim Palmer, was embroiled in a legal saga that would define his career. Hailing from Jamaica, Kartel's rise to fame in the dancehall scene was meteoric, his charismatic performances and provocative lyrics earning him a devoted following worldwide. However, his trajectory took a dark turn when he was convicted of the 2011 murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams, a crime that led to a life sentence behind bars.

Recently, Kartel's story took a dramatic twist as reports surfaced of his successful appeal against the conviction, citing juror misconduct during the original trial, according to the NY Times. The decision sparked a renewed legal battle, with a Jamaican appeals court now poised to determine whether Kartel and his co-defendants will face a new trial.

Rude Boys: Reggae Stars in Trouble - The classic Jamaican indie film The Harder They Come portrayed a rising music star, played by Jimmy Cliff, who was on the run from the law — when he wasn't busting shots at them. Unfortunately, the movie wasn't just a movie; reggae has a long history of legal troubles. Just ask Vybz Kartel: The dancehall star was recently charged with his second murder charge this month. Read on for a look at other reggae artists who've ended up on the wrong side of the law.

Vybz Kartel Granted Bail on One Murder Charge

The initial trial, spanning an unprecedented 64 days, was marked by controversy. Allegations emerged that one juror had attempted to sway others with bribes for a not-guilty verdict, yet this juror remained part of the proceedings.

In a pivotal ruling, the Privy Council deemed the inclusion of the compromised juror "fatal to the safety of the convictions which followed" and a violation of the defendants' fundamental right to a fair trial. This decision underscored the gravity of the situation and raised questions about the integrity of the original proceedings.

Latest News

Subscribe for BET Updates

Provide your email address to receive our newsletter.


By clicking Subscribe, you confirm that you have read and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. You also agree to receive marketing communications, updates, special offers (including partner offers) and other information from BET and the Paramount family of companies. You understand that you can unsubscribe at any time.