JAY-Z says he once refused to lend his cousin $4,800 and said the interaction made him uncomfortable. The legendary rapper, who is worth an estimated $2.5 billion, explained his side of the story to Kevin Hart on his talk show: Heart to Heartin a clip that has resurfaced on social media.
JAY-Z went on to say that he was upset when his cousin commented that he “doesn’t believe in their dream.” The cousin also suggested that it would return Jay’s $2 million in profits. Comments among fans on social media were divided, with many believing it was a selfish move on Hov’s part.
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JAY-Z and Kevin Hart at Roc Nation’s Pre-Grammy Brunch
BEVERLY HILLS, CA – JANUARY 25: (Exclusive Coverage) Kevin Hart and Jay-Z attend the Roc Nation Pre-Grammy Brunch hosted by MAC Viva Glam at a private residence on January 25, 2014 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images)
One Twitter user wrote: “Jay Z has $2.5 billion, his cousin asked for $4800 and he said no. To put this into perspective, it would be the equivalent of someone who earns 50,000 a year being asked to give a penny. Another defended him: “The problem is that once you say yes the first time, they always think they can come back to you for more. And it also makes people around them feel more comfortable asking. They become addicted, and it’s a very slippery slope.” Watch JAY-Z’s explanation of the situation below.
JAY-Z on how his family is asking for money
Elsewhere in the interview with Kevin Hart, Jay discussed his potential retirement plans, not getting paid for features, and more. At this point, Jay and Hart have been friends for many years. The comedian recently hosted an evening event at the casino for JAY-Z, Meek Mill and Michael Rubin for Reform Alliance. The star-studded evening was attended by Tom Brady, Kim Kardashian and many other celebrities, who helped raise $24 million for criminal justice reform.
Read More: JAY-Z Tells Kevin Hart He Doesn’t Accept Money for Features: ‘I Never Take Money’
(Street)