Rapper Tory Lanez spoke publicly for the first time from behind bars Thursday, maintaining his innocence and disputing public perceptions of his character. The interview, conducted virtually from California Men’s Colony and aired on NBC News, marks the first time the artist, whose legal name is Daystar Peterson, has addressed the media since his conviction and sentencing.
Lanez is serving a 10-year state prison sentence for the July 2020 shooting of fellow rapper Megan Thee Stallion, a case that drew intense media attention and polarized fans nationwide. A Los Angeles jury convicted him in 2022.
“These last few years have been misconstrued,” Lanez said from his prison cell. “There is definitely a very big misconception about me that seems to the public as I’m this monster.”
Denying Violence and Stress of Incarceration
In the wide-ranging conversation, Lanez repeatedly insisted he has never been violent toward a woman and said the narrative surrounding the case has unfairly shaped his reputation. “I’ve never been violent towards a woman,” he said. “I would never hit a woman, let alone shoot a woman.”
He described the emotional toll of incarceration and the stigma that comes with his conviction, adding that new evidence has emerged that he believes could impact legal proceedings. “I believe not only that I was wrongfully convicted, but the amount of new evidence that has emerged … has been overwhelming,” he said.
Lanez’s attorneys are pursuing a new appeal and have hinted they may seek a pardon or clemency from California Gov. Gavin Newsom, an uncommon legal route. “I’m just asking for somebody in the system to look at my case … and ask if this was fair,” Lanez said.
Reflecting on Megan Thee Stallion and Public Fallout
When asked about Megan Thee Stallion, born Megan Pete, Lanez declined to directly address her, saying he would prefer a conversation in person. “There’s this connotation that I share this hatred for her, but I don’t,” Lanez said. “I’m genuinely past that.”
Pete has not publicly responded to the new remarks. In past court proceedings, she testified to the trauma she endured after being shot in the foot and sought a restraining order against Lanez, expressing ongoing fear and emotional distress.
Lanez’s legal fight has continued during his sentence, even as he has faced violent episodes in prison, including a stabbing attack that left him seriously injured, according to his statements and legal team.
“I’ve done my best to keep my head above water,” he said, reflecting on the psychological strain. “Mentally I’ve gone through trauma … that I sometimes struggle with.”