Azealia Banks Sends Cease-and-Desist Letter to The 1975’s Matty Healy After Heated Online Feud

Azealia Banks has taken legal action against The 1975’s Matty Healy following their recent contentious exchange, which played out across social media. The Harlem rapper sent a cease-and-desist letter to Healy, demanding $1 million in damages and a public apology for what she claims were racially charged insults and cyber harassment.

Legal Action Over “Serious Damage”

The cease-and-desist letter alleges that Healy’s now-deleted posts caused Banks “serious damage” by circulating widely online. According to Banks’ legal team, the British musician’s comments, which included calling her a “rat” and making “repeated threats of violence,” constituted cyber harassment and violated federal and state laws.

“Healy acted intentionally with the specific purpose of causing [Banks] to be shocked, distressed, and emotionally injured,” the letter claims. It also asserts that his removal of the posts is “evidence of an admission of guilt.”

Banks is demanding not only $1 million in damages but also injunctive relief and reimbursement for legal fees.

How the Feud Escalated

The tensions between Banks and Healy began on December 3, when Banks made a remark about Charli XCX—fiancée of The 1975’s drummer George Daniel—saying the pop star “used to be so pretty.” Healy responded sharply, suggesting Banks attacks “culturally relevant, attractive, divisive, and nice people” out of jealousy.

Banks hit back with a disparaging comment about Healy and his fiancée, Gabbriette Bechtel, alleging they “look like they share needles.” Healy then retaliated with an explicit threat:

“I’ll f**king slap you so hard [that] I’ll get a Guinness world record for the highest a rat some b**ch calls a wig has ever flown.”

Banks’ Year of Controversy

This latest incident adds to what has been a controversy-laden 2024 for Banks. The rapper has been involved in public disputes with Lil Nas X, Ice Spice, Doechii, and even Nicki Minaj, cementing her reputation for unfiltered and polarizing commentary.

What’s Next?

While Healy has yet to publicly respond to the cease-and-desist letter, the legal action underscores the serious consequences of online feuds. With Banks seeking financial damages and a public apology, the fallout from their clash may extend far beyond social media.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as it unfolds.