Cardi B going to court.
Am I the drama?
In February 2018, Cardi B (real name Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar) had a confidential appointment at an OB-GYN’s office while four months pregnant with her first child. Security guard Emani Ellis, who was working in the building, allegedly followed Cardi and appeared to be recording her. Which sparked a heated verbal argument between the two.
In a lawsuit filed in 2020, Ellis accused Cardi of spitting on her and scratching her cheek with a long fingernail during the altercation, causing emotional trauma and a scar that required cosmetic surgery. Ellis also initially claimed Cardi B’s celebrity status led to her termination, but later clarified she was fired for a HIPAA violation related to the incident.
The rapper testified that Ellis was the aggressor who invaded her privacy by trying to film her during a sensitive medical visit. Cardi admitted to cursing at Ellis during the verbal exchange but adamantly denied any physical contact. Other witnesses, including a receptionist, testified that they saw no physical violence.
She said, she said
Cardi B responded to questions that most would deem unnecessary in ways that many people wish they could respond. With a calm attitude and composed demeanor. Even making small comments that made the court laugh.
“I don’t think I was like, on a high level of angry. I was more on a high level of concern, very concerned.” Said Cardi.
When asked why she was concerned, “Because I’m pregnant and this girl is about to…” she responded.
Cardi went on to vulgarly explain how the woman allegedly was about to fight her.
Cardi B stated she was concerned since it could have escalalted into something much more dangerous. Along with her being pregnant at the time, it made the situation more concerning for her.
The internet certainly has comments to say about the trial. Fans think she did an amazing job in trial while under pressure and didn’t break.
“Cardi B on the stand in court is the best thing you will see all day, hands down, I promise.” One spectator said.
“Can we talk about how Cardi B is putting on a master class of how to perform as a witness during trial?” Another spectator said.
When asked ‘Are you disabled, yes or no?’, “At that moment, when you’re pregnant, I’m very disabled. You want me to tell you the things I can’t do?” Cardi retorted.
Which made the court laugh with her sassy attitude towards the question and expressive actions. Cardi being a reference for others for keeping her calm way of answering honestly when asked questions that most would say are unneeded, made people admire her for not snapping or breaking when in a tight spot in court.
Then she was asked, ‘What was your disability on February 24th of 2018? What was your disability?’ “I was pregnant, I couldn’t protect myself even if I wanted to. She’s like twice my size.” She responds.
Refering to her security gaurd Emani Ellis who had sued her for $24 million for being hurt by Cardi after the altercation between them, Cardi responded to questions about how much she was being sued for.
As she was prompted, ‘How do you know that?’ “Because she’s suing me for $25 million, $24 million.” Cardi answered.
The 2025 civil trial and verdict
The civil trial concluded on September 2, 2025, in a Los Angeles court. The jury deliberated for less than two hours before finding Cardi B not liable for assault and battery. Following the verdict, Cardi B warned anyone considering “frivolous lawsuits” against her. She stated that she would countersue and seek payment. The trial attracted significant media attention and generated viral moments. These were particularly related to Cardi B’s testimony and her different courtroom attire.
Capitalizing on the viral attention, Cardi B quickly began selling special “Courtroom Edition” versions of her upcoming album Am I the Drama?. She used her courtroom photos as the cover art.