Drake appeals dismissal of defamation suit over Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 song accusing him of being a pedophile.

Drake has appealed a federal judge’s 2025 dismissal of his defamation lawsuit over Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 song “Not Like Us,” arguing the lyrics accusing him of being a “certified pedophile” were presented as factual claims, not protected artistic expression. His legal team contends the song’s widespread promotion by Universal Music Group turned the allegations into damaging public narratives, challenging the idea that all rap diss tracks are fully shielded from legal scrutiny. The appeal, filed January 21, 2026, keeps the case active and could set a precedent for how courts handle similar disputes involving music and serious accusations.