Rapper Cardi B has come to the defense of South African singer Tyla following a wave of online criticism. Speaking during an X Spaces livestream.
Cardi B called out the relentless negativity Tyla has faced, emphasizing that the young artist “doesn’t even address or talk about anything” and questioning the public’s expectations: “What do you want her to do, cut her veins?” The gesture highlights Cardi B’s support for Tyla as the rising star navigates the pressures of international fame.
Cardi B publicly defended Tyla from online hate during an X Spaces livestream on August 13, 2025. She criticized the relentless negativity Tyla faced, stating, “People been dragging the s*** out of Tyla, and it’s like, the girl doesn’t even address or talk about anything.” Cardi B questioned the public’s expectations of celebrities, remarking, “It’s like the only way that people like celebrities is if you don’t say anything at all.” She expressed concern over the severity of the criticism, asking, “What do you want her to fing do, cut her fing veins? Like, enough
Tyla has not publicly responded to Cardi B’s defense. However, she acknowledged the support by reposting a clip from Cardi B’s livestream on her social media, where Cardi referred to her wig as a “Tyla wig.” This gesture indicates Tyla’s appreciation for Cardi B’s support.The backlash against Tyla began after a 2020 TikTok video where she described herself as a “Coloured South African,” a term with different connotations in South Africa compared to other countries.
The situation intensified during a 2023 interview on The Breakfast Club when Tyla declined to discuss her ethnicity, leading to further criticism. In a 2024interview with Variety, Tyla described the situation as “confusing” and expressed feeling unsettled by the intense scrutiny of her identity.Tyla has not publicly commented on Cardi B’s recent defense amid the online backlash she has been facing. However, she has shown appreciation for Cardi B’s support. In a recent post, Tyla reposted a clip from Cardi B’s livestream where Cardi referred to her wig as a “Tyla wig,” indicating her acknowledgment and likely gratitude for the gesture.
