Rapper Killer Mike escorted out in handcuffs after Grammys triumph; fans demand answers

The Los Angeles Police Department removed rapper Michael 'Killer Mike' Render from the Crypto.com Arena in handcuffs immediately after he won three awards at the 2024 Grammys.

Video emerges of arrest, sparking outrage

Videos surfaced on X (formerly Twitter) around 4:22 p.m. PT, showing bystanders crying "Free Mike" as Killer Mike was brought away in handcuffs. Many of his admirers and fellow musicians were perplexed and outraged when the videos went viral.

Take a look at it below:

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Details of arrest and speculation

His detention was for a misdemeanour and unrelated to the events at the arena, according to Chris Gardner, a senior staff writer for The Hollywood Reporter. However, the exact reason for his arrest remains unknown. An official also informed someone on Killer Mike's crew that he could be released later that night, according to Gardner.

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In the pre-show ceremony, which took place before the main telecast started at 5:00 p.m. PT and handed out multiple Grammys, Killer Mike received three trophies. Scientists and Engineers (his sixth studio album, which came out in June 2023) was named the best rap song, while Michael (his sixth studio album overall) was named the best rap album.

Reactions and praise for Killer Mike's music

Fans and journalists alike lauded his socially conscious and lyrically gifted single, Scientists and Engineers, which featured André 3000, Future, and Eryn Allen Kane. His multi-talented and mature Michael was widely considered to be the year's top rap album.

No official comment has been issued by either the Recording Academy or Killer Mike's reps; however, Grammy chief Harvey Mason Jr. was seen chatting with Killer Mike's crew and officials at the scene.

Social and political advocacy of Killer Mike

Among the many social and political causes he has championed is racial justice, and he has been vocal about his views on police brutality, economic inequality, and education. As part of the rap group Run the Jewels, he and El-P have released four albums that critics have well received.

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