The family posted on his Instagram account, “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Irving ‘Irv Gotti’ Lorenzo, on February 5, 2025. Surrounded by family and friends, he departed this world, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched.” 

It continued, “Our dad was an incredible man, a true visionary who transformed the hip-hop industry and changed the game for artists and fans alike. His passion for music and dedication to his craft inspired many, and his contributions will continue to influence future generations. As we navigate this difficult time, we kindly ask for privacy while we grieve the loss of our dad, son, brother, uncle, and friend. We take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on through his music and the love he shared with all of us. Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. With love, Angie, Sonny, and JJ.” 

Irv Gotti, the founder of Murder Inc. Records passed away at 54 years old. We will continue to keep his family in our thoughts and prayers.  

After reports surfaced that the Murder Inc. co-founder suffered a stroke, allegedly due to complications from diabetes, and now walks with a cane. The media mogul took to Instagram to taunt his rival, posting a pointed message that quickly caught the attention of fans: “Damn homie, in high school you were the man homie; WTF happened to you? Want Irv to get well so he can have to watch my next wave LOL.” 

The jab, a reference to his hit song “Wanksta,” came after a photo of Gotti walking with a cane went viral, highlighting his recovery journey.

Irv Gotti, who has battled diabetes for years, experienced a stroke several months ago but has since made a significant recovery, according to his representatives. 

“Irv has been struggling with diabetes for years, which led to a minor stroke over six months ago. He has since changed his diet and is eating healthier. He’s successfully made a full recovery. Irv is not in a rehab facility. He is at home with his family, enjoying life,” a representative told TMZ.

The situation gained further attention when music manager Wack 100 leaked the image of Gotti using the cane and discussed the incident on Clubhouse. “Irv Gotti had a stroke,” Wack 100 said, noting that the photo was taken outside of a recovery center. He added that Gotti has “lost a lot of weight” and urged followers to “pray for Irv Gotti.”

Wack 100 also revealed that the image was reportedly obtained from a worker at the rehabilitation center, sparking concerns and curiosity about Gotti’s health. Despite the public nature of the feud, Gotti’s team reassures that he is recovering well and enjoying life at home with his family.

Held at the Greater Allen AME Church in Queens, Ja Rule expressed his gratitude for Gotti’s impact on his life and career.

“I just wanna say Irv I love you,” Ja said at the podium. “Everyone in this room loves you. You touched everybody in your own way in this room. I know everyone has their moments… so we’re all here in celebration of your life because it will live on forever. I love you my brother. I’ll see you when I get there.”

According to TMZ, alumni of Gotti’s Muder Inc., such as  Vita, Ashanti, Lloyd, and Charli Baltimore. Also, JAY-Z, Fat Joe, Hype WIllams, Steve Stoute, and Benny Boom paid their final respects to Gotti.

After the procession, Irv Gotti’s family traveled to his old neighborhood in Queens for one last ride. The procession passed by his childhood home and the park where Gotti first became a DJ.

On February 5, Gotti passed away after reportedly suffering multiple strokes over the past year. He was reportedly in the hospital on life support during his last days. 

Confirming his passing, Gotti’s family shared a heartfelt post on Instagram.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Irving ‘Irv Gotti’ Lorenzo, on February 5, 2025. Surrounded by family and friends, he departed this world, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched,” the post read.

“Our dad was an incredible man, a true visionary who transformed the hip-hop industry and changed the game for artists and fans alike. His passion for music and dedication to his craft inspired many, and his contributions will continue to influence future generations,” the post continued. “As we navigate this difficult time, we kindly ask for privacy while we grieve the loss of our dad, son, brother, uncle, and friend. We take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on through his music and the love he shared with all of us. Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. With love, Angie, Sonny, and JJ.” 

A cause of death has not been revealed.

Launching his career in the 1990s, Gotti made a name for himself as an up-and-coming producer under the moniker DJ Irv. He produced Mic Geranomo’s debut album “The Natural” and “Can I Live” from JAY-Z’s classic debut album Reasonable Doubt.

Gotti went on to become an A&R executive at Def Jam where convinced the label to sign DMX. He served as executive producer on DMX’s groundbreaking debut album It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot in 1998. and the soundtrack for the 1998 film Belly. Following his success, Gotti started his own imprint, Murder Inc. Records, in partnership with his brother Chris which was distributed by Def Jam.

The label signed Ja Rule as its flagship artist and enjoyed massive success with his platinum-selling debut album Venni Vetti Vecci with Gotti producing every track, serving as the executive producer.

Along with Ja Rule, Gotti discovered Ashanti and produced her self-titled, number-one debut album in 2002. He also produced her Billboard Hot 100 number-one smash “Foolish” which spent 10 consecutive weeks at the top spot on the Billboard chart.

Murder Inc. began to lose momentum after federal agents raided its offices on suspicion of drug money laundering in Jan. 2003. Gotti was charged with racketeering and money laundering as part of an investigation that also involved his brother Christopher and Kenneth McGriff, a convicted drug lord

After his acquittal in 2005,  Gotti rebranded the label as The Inc., releasing successful albums by Lloyd and Ashanti.

Turning to TV, Gotti created and produced Tales, a drama series that reimagined classic rap songs and The Murder Inc. Story which chronicled his journey in the industry. Both series aired on BET.

In June 2022, he sold 50 percent of his Murder Inc. masters after signing a $300 million deal with brand management company Iconoclast. 

In 2024, his health began to decline after suffering a stroke as a result of a diabetes diagnosis.

“Irv has been struggling with diabetes for years, which caused him to have a minor stroke over six months ago. He has since changed his diet to eating more healthy. He’s been successful in making a full recovery. Irv is not in a rehab facility. He is at home with his family, enjoying life” his rep said at the time.

We at HOT97 extend our prayers and deepest condolences to the family and friends of Irv Gotti.

The singer posted a heartfelt tribute, sharing several photos of herself and Irv. She wrote, “I can’t believe things ended this way… It breaks my heart. Although we weren’t on the best terms in recent years, I will always be thankful for everything you did for me.”

She continued, “We made history, and that will last forever. I’ve always respected your musical genius and the way you pushed me to be my best. The good and the positive far outweigh the tough and negative moments. I’ve always prayed for your peace. Sending love and prayers to your family. Rest well. Rest in Peace, Irv.”

Gotti and ashanti’s working relationship:

Irv Gotti and Ashanti had a long-standing and impactful partnership in the music industry. Irv discovered Ashanti and produced her self-titled debut album, which hit number one in 2002. He was also behind the production of her massive hit “Foolish,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for 10 consecutive weeks.

Irv’s family also spoke out following his passing. In a statement, the family says, “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Irving ‘Irv Gotti’ Lorenzo, on February 5, 2025. Surrounded by family and friends, he departed this world, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched.” 

The statement continued, “Our dad was an incredible man, a true visionary who transformed the hip-hop industry and changed the game for artists and fans alike. His passion for music and dedication to his craft inspired many, and his contributions will continue to influence future generations. As we navigate this difficult time, we kindly ask for privacy while we grieve the loss of our dad, son, brother, uncle, and friend. We take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on through his music and the love he shared with all of us. Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. With love, Angie, Sonny, and JJ.” 

May he rest peacefully.

As previously reported Irv Gotti, the founder of Murder Inc. Records, has passed away at 54, reports The Hollywood Reporter.

Gotti’s family has released a statement following his passing. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Irving ‘Irv Gotti’ Lorenzo, on February 5, 2025. Surrounded by family and friends, he departed this world, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched.” 

It continued, “our dad was an incredible man, a true visionary who transformed the hip-hop industry and changed the game for artists and fans alike. His passion for music and dedication to his craft inspired many, and his contributions will continue to influence future generations. As we navigate this difficult time, we kindly ask for privacy while we grieve the loss of our dad, son, brother, uncle, and friend. We take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on through his music and the love he shared with all of us. Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. With love, Angie, Sonny, and JJ.” 

The hip-hop community shared their sentiments following the passing of the legendary producer. “What a Genius, God bless you irv ty for all you’ve done for Hip Hop. You changed my life and i will always love you RIP..” shared Fat Joe via Instagram.

“Loved music. Loved HipHop. He was loved. Thank You for your service…” wrote Ebro via Instagram.

Ja Rule, a longtime collaborator of Gotti, expressed his thoughts on X.

Speaking with 2 Way Tonight, he described the fatal stroke—his second that year—worsened by complications from diabetes. He started by outlining Irv’s health struggles in recent years: “He was diagnosed when he was in his 40s, but Irv doesn’t go to the doctor. That’s why he was late being diagnosed. When he finally did go get a real physical and a check-up, they’re like, ‘You’re diabetic.’” Chris continued, “Irv did go on his terms. He just didn’t believe it and basically he ate a bunch of Chinese food while playing poker and had a massive hemorrhagic stroke, which is bleeding in the brain.”

Honoring Irv: A Life Lost, a Legacy Lives On

Though an official cause of death remains unconfirmed, Chris bluntly attributed the influential producer and label boss’s passing to “food.” “Power, having a crew, dressing well, none of that keeps you alive, but the thing that keeps me going, all the people that look at me as strong, I don’t want them to have to wash my behind. I couldn’t even fathom seeing Irv like that,” he stated. “I wish he would have fought hard for his health. When I lose people it makes me love life and appreciate it more.”

Irv’s funeral took place in New York last week, drawing figures like Ja Rule and JAY-Z. At the service, Ja delivered a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend and former label chief. “Irv, I love you. Everyone in this room loves you. You touched everybody in your own way. I know everybody has their moments of that with him. We’re all here in celebration of your life because it will live on forever. I love you my brother. See you when I get there,” he remarked. Gotti, who survived two strokes in two years, has been vocal about his diabetes battle, which recently forced a drastic dietary shift.

Miami New Times journalist Alex DeLuca broke the news on Tuesday morning (July 16). The court documents state that the 56-year-old executive, real name Irving Domingo Lorenzo, is being accused of sexually assaulting and abusing Jane Doe in Saint Martin, Miami, and Atlanta from 2020 to 2022. 

According to DeLuca, the woman claims she and Gotti met at a poker tournament in the summer of 2020, and Gotti invited her on a vacation to Saint Martin afterward. Gotti allegedly threatened to send her home if she did not have sex with him once he arrived on the Caribbean island. The lawsuit states that Gotti and Jane Doe began a relationship after Saint Martin’s trip.

The lawsuit details the Atlanta and Miami incidents. According to Jane Doe, Gotti flew her to Miami in January 2022 and forced her to perform oral sex on him in the elevator at the Four Seasons hotel. In the summer of 2022, he allegedly forced her to perform the same act in an Uber in Atlanta.

The lawsuit claims that the woman suffered emotional and physical injuries from her relationship with Gotti that still affect her today. It reads: “As a result of this sexually abusive relationship, Plaintiff has suffered severe emotional and psychological harm for which she had to be committed to a psychiatric ward. These injuries continue and affect Plaintiff to this day.”

Under his Murder Inc. record label, Irv Gotti has produced hip-hop superstars such as Ja Rule, Ashanti, and Lloyd. The label flourished throughout the early 2000s with classic songs like “Holla Holla,” “Happy,” “Mesmerize,” and “Between Me & You.” 

The lawsuit seeks a jury trial. Jane Doe is represented by Adriana Alcalde, Esq. of EISENBERG & BAUM, LLP, in New York.

Irv Gotti had not responded to the lawsuit or any of the allegations at press time.

The interview took an unexpected turn when Boosie struggled to pronounce the word “influential.” Fans quickly turned the moment into a viral joke, but beyond the laughs, his message hit hard. He admitted he never met Gotti but was deeply moved by the tributes. Seeing the outpouring of respect made him wonder why artists don’t get their flowers while they can still smell them.

“I never met Irv Gotti, and now I’m reading all this about how he influenced the industry. Where was this love when he was here?” Boosie asked. “I ain’t even know he did all this till he died.”

Gotti, best known for co-founding Murder Inc. and shaping the sounds of Ja Rule and Ashanti, played a huge role in early 2000s hip-hop. Boosie pointed out how people only seemed to appreciate his impact after he was gone. His frustration echoed a common sentiment—artists and industry figures often don’t receive their due credit until it’s too late.

“Man, this dude was a musical genius, and I ain’t know it till he was gone. That’s the sad part,” Boosie said. Fans resonated with his words, with one commenting, “They bring flowers to your funeral but won’t bring you soup when you’re sick.” Another added, “A man’s worth is never fully appreciated until he’s gone. Big facts.”

While Boosie’s pronunciation mishap became a meme, it didn’t overshadow his point. Gotti’s influence on hip-hop was undeniable. As the mastermind behind some of the biggest hits of the early 2000s, his production skills and business moves solidified his legacy long before his passing.

Gotti’s career wasn’t without controversy. Legal battles and public feuds followed him for years, but his contributions to the culture were significant. The wave of tributes from the music industry proves just how much he mattered.

Boosie’s emotional reaction struck a nerve. His words reminded fans to appreciate legends while they’re still here. Though he never met Gotti, the impact was clear. That alone speaks volumes about the legacy Irv Gotti left behind.

According to TMZ, a representative for Irv Gotti confirmed that he suffered a stroke six months ago. 

Irv’s team shut down Wack 100’s claims that the producer is currently using a “walker” to walk, and in a rehab facility. 

“Irv has been struggling with diabetes for years, which caused him to have a minor stroke over six months ago. He has since changed his diet to eating more healthy. He’s been successful in making a full recovery. Irv is not in a rehab facility. He is at home with his family, enjoying life” confirms the rep.

Following the statement, Gotti put out a response of his own. “I’m getting older. That’s all,” he says. “Only thing worse than getting old is not getting old.”

He goes on to say, “life is good,” as he has been spending family time with his sons, #Sonny and #JJ, and his two dogs. He also shares that his children didn’t like Wack 100’s claims. “They love their dad so much,” he said. 

The legendary producer previously opened up about his struggle with diabetes during an episode of Drink Champs. During the interview, Irv admitted to not taking his insulin consistently. He also says his doctors encouraged him to change his diet- which he is done, according to his rep.

According to reports, Irv says he is working on a DMX biopic.