In a throwback to one of the more unusual legal battles in the celebrity world, 50 Cent’s 2008 lawsuit against Taco Bell has resurfaced on social media.
The rapper, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, sued the fast-food chain for $4 million, claiming they used his name without permission in an ad campaign.
50 Cent’s The Name
The controversy began when Taco Bell launched its “Why Pay More?” campaign, promoting menu items priced under a dollar. In a move that was to be funny, the campaign suggested that 50 Cent should change his name to 79 Cent, 89 Cent, or 99 Cent to reflect the low prices. The campaign caught 50 Cent by surprise, as Taco Bell never sought his approval. Instead of contacting him, Taco Bell sent a humorous letter to journalists, not to the rapper himself.
“Without seeking or obtaining Jackson’s authorization, defendant Taco Bell made him the star and focus of its nationwide advertising campaign by using his name, persona, and trademark to promote Taco Bell’s business and products,” read the lawsuit filed by 50 Cent’s legal team. The rapper argued that the campaign misled many into believing he had endorsed Taco Bell, causing a backlash among his fans who felt he had “sold out.”
Taco Bell defended its actions, with spokesperson Rob Poetsch saying at the time, “We made a good faith, charitable offer to 50 Cent to change his name to either 79, 89 or 99 Cent for one day by rapping his order at a Taco Bell, and we would have been very pleased to make the $10,000 donation to the charity of his choice.” Despite the playful tone, the rapper took the matter seriously and sought $4 million in damages from the California-based company.
The case ended with a settlement, the details of which were never disclosed. “As is often the case in these situations, the parties have agreed not to discuss anything about the settlement except to say both sides are satisfied,” 50 Cent’s lawyer explained at the time.
There does not seem to be any media reports on how the lawsuit was resolved.
Businessminded
Meanwhile, in 2024, 50 Cent is set to headline Earn Your Leisure’s upcoming Invest Fest in Atlanta, showcasing his business advocacy. The event, scheduled Aug. 23-25 at the Georgia World Congress Center, underscores 50 Cent’s influential role in merging culture and business. Interestingly, 50’s rival and brunt of many of his insults, Diddy, hosted last year’s festival.
“50 represents the powerful blend of culture and business,” said Earn Your Leisure co-founder Troy Millings. “His insights and experiences will inspire and empower our audience to pursue their own paths to financial freedom.” The festival’s lineup also includes T.I., Monica, Stephen A. Smith, Daymond John, Dee-1, and Pinky Cole.
