Warning: This article discusses suicidal thoughts and may be distressing to some readers.
Cardi B has revealed she considered taking her own life as a result of rumours spread about her by YouTuber Tasha K.
In an emotional court testimony, the 'WAP' rapper said that the things Tasha K said about her - including allegations Cardi B was a sex worker and had contracted multiple STIs - left her "defeated and depressed".
"I wanted to commit suicide over the things [they said]... I didn't want to sleep with my husband," she told the court, according to TMZ.
"[I felt like] I didn't deserve my kid," she added, referencing her three-year-old daughter Kulture, who was born around the time Tasha K's claims were being made.
Cardi B claimed she had developed fatigue, anxiety, weight loss and migraines as a result of the stress of the situation, which saw Tasha K relentlessly continue to share content about the Grammy winner to her nearly 1 million YouTube followers.
"Only an evil person could do that shit," Cardi B said, before apologising for her language. The 29-year-old mother of two reportedly broke down in tears while taking the stand.
Billboard reports that Cardi B explained she had never previously felt suicidal, despite battling poverty, homelessness and physical abuse in her younger years. She eventually sought professional help from a therapist.
The hip-hop star also denied she had herpes - a claim that Tasha K made on more than one occasion. Cardi B said the rumour took a significant toll on her mental health, particularly when she posted a photo of herself kissing her daughter on the lips and received backlash from social media users who believed it.
Cardi B's testimony comes after the rapper filed a lawsuit in 2019 that alleged Tasha K defamed her with dozens of YouTube videos filled with explicit and shocking claims.
Earlier in the trial, Tasha K reportedly admitted to knowingly publishing lies about the 'Bodak Yellow' star in order to generate money for her business.
The trial is ongoing.
Where to find help and support:
- Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
- Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
- Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
- What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
- Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
