MSG Files Defamation Lawsuit Against WIRED Over Alleged LGBTQ Blacklist
MSG’s Allegations Against WIRED
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG), which owns the famed Sphere venue in Las Vegas, has initiated a defamation lawsuit against WIRED magazine. The case stems from an article asserting that MSG maintained an internal blacklist targeting LGBTQ celebrities.
The Core Claims of the Lawsuit
WIRED published a report entitled “Madison Square Garden Kept a List of Gay Celebrities,” claiming that MSG managed internal databases containing sensitive information about VIP guests, including their race, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The article suggested MSG assigned “risk scores” to certain high-profile individuals based on this data.
MSG disputes these claims, explaining that WIRED acquired stolen data from a hacking group known as ShinyHunters, which had accessed MSG’s information illegally. MSG argues that the magazine selectively used this data to promote a misleading narrative accusing MSG of discrimination against the LGBTQIA community.
Furthermore, MSG points out that the dataset included normal details like addresses, phone numbers, and dietary preferences—information standard to relationship management systems rather than anything discriminatory. The lawsuit emphasizes that these facts were overlooked by WIRED’s reporters.
WIRED’s Response to the Accusations
WIRED has firmly rejected MSG’s claims, standing by the accuracy of its reporting. The publication described the lawsuit as unfounded and stated its intent to defend the article vigorously. WIRED also highlighted its commitment to investigative journalism focused on influential figures and organizations, including MSG CEO James Dolan and his use of technology within the entertainment sector.
In an effort to increase public access, WIRED removed paywalls from two critical articles regarding MSG. One of these stories revealed allegations about Dolan’s security team conducting prolonged surveillance on a transgender woman within MSG’s premises, tracking her movements intensively over two years.
Details from the Controversial Article
The article claims MSG’s database lists approximately 40,000 names, with about 400 individuals given “risk scores” ranging from low risk up to a “DO NOT HOST” status. These scores reportedly derive from social media criticism rather than any immediate safety threats.
Those labeled unwelcome included public figures such as hip-hop producer Pete Rock, who had previously called for a boycott of Dolan on social media. Other notable names mentioned are actor Will Harrison, actress Julia Fox, comedian Adam Pally, and hip-hop artists Freddie Gibbs, Lil Jon, and DaBaby.
Upcoming Sphere Project and Related Concerns
Separately, MSG is planning a smaller-scale Sphere venue in Maryland. However, the project has recently drawn attention from federal aviation authorities due to its proximity to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
