Rapper T.I. Announces Retirement From Performing: 'My Last Working Gig'

Rapper T.I. has officially announced his retirement from performing, revealing that his final show will be in December.

The Atlanta native, who once dominated the rap charts, says he is stepping away because he no longer "needs the money." The decision comes on the heels of a major victory for T.I. and his wife Tiny against MGA Entertainment, adding even more to their financial success.

With his financial future secured, Rapper T.I. is clearly ready to focus on new ventures and enjoy life beyond the stage.

During an interview on 96.1's afternoon show, the rap icon shared the shocking update alongside fellow Atlanta rapper Young Dro.

The 44-year-old officially declared his retirement from performing, revealing his final paid gig would be at 96.1 The Beat's Jingle Ball holiday concert on December 19 in his hometown Atlanta. 

"I appreciate y'all for offering me my last working gig because I do not need the money anymore, and I will not be performing," T.I. stated emphatically. 

In the video posted to the station's Instagram, the rapper explained the reason, emphasizing, I don't want to do it no more...I don't want people to pay me to hop around and sweat for their entertainment anymore."

When host Ferrari Simmons asked if T.I. would participate in future shows, the father-of-six made it clear: "Of course, I'm going to answer the phone to tell them that I will not be performing."

However, Young Dro jokingly teased that he would be picking up any gigs his longtime friend decides to pass on. "I'm picking up all Tip's shows that he ain't going to. Doing them all," the "Shoulder Lean" artist quipped.

As T.I. prepares to wrap up his performing career, his announcement ignited a flurry of debate among fans and critics alike. While some applauded the rapper for stepping back, others question his motives, suggesting his recent settlement has influenced his decision to retire.

Comments surfaced, with one user stating, "TI won that settlement and now all of a sudden he don't need to rap anymore." Another commenter added, "If it wasn't for the 71 million, he'd be rapping till he's 70," hinting that financial stability has shifted his priorities.

Critics also accused T.I. of "acting brand new" and claiming that his previous dedication to his fans was merely a facade. In contrast, some defenders of the actor came to his side, stating that he is well-established in other businesses. 

"Not true, he is heavy in the real estate game and also has affordable housing in Atlanta! He had money before this settlement andsecondly you don't know his finances!!!!" one fan passionately argued.

It is no surprise that T.I. is stepping back from the spotlight now that he has secured a substantial financial windfall. Recent fan accusations suggesting his retirement is linked to newfound wealth may hold some truth.

The Blast reported that T.I. and his wife, Tiny, wrapped up a lengthy legal battle against MGA Entertainment. They accused the toy company of creating dolls that closely resembled their all-female group, OMG Girlz.

The couple formed the group in 2009, and their fight for justice spanned four years. On September 23, the jury delivered a decisive verdict, finding MGA guilty of infringing on the couple's intellectual property rights. 

As a result, the toy company was ordered to pay an astonishing $71 million, comprising $17.9 million in compensatory damages and $53.6 million in punitive damages.

The legal saga between T.I., Tiny, and MGA Entertainment went back to 2020 when the toy company launched the "L.O.L. Surprise! O.M.G. dolls."

During the trial, the couple contended that seven dolls closely mirrored their band members' appearances from "specific public events."

This included echoing the likeness of Tiny's eldest daughter, Zonnique Pullins. Their compelling arguments resonated with jurors, leading to a unanimous verdict that found MGA guilty of infringement. 

The lovebirds are no strangers to the courtroom, and while their triumph against MGA Entertainment made headlines, it was not the only legal battle they faced.

Two months prior to their significant victory, The Blast reported that the couple sought to dismiss a sexual assault lawsuit brought against them by an Air Force member over an alleged incident dating back to 2005.

The business owners took a firm stand against the claims, arguing that the lawsuit should be thrown out as the allegations were "time-barred" under the law. 

Their legal team asserted that the statute of limitations had expired more than sixteen years ago and maintained that the encounter in question was consensual.

The couple's attorney asserted, "The facts, as alleged, reflect that [Doe] voluntarily and consciously participated in the encounter up to the point when she said 'no' and removed herself from the bed with Defendants."

Regardless of the opinions concerning his retirement announcement, it is clear that T.I.'s legacy as a prominent figure in hip-hop will be remembered long after he steps off the stage for the last time.