In a notable development, Jamaican dancehall artiste Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Palmer, was released from prison on July 31, 2024, after judges ruled against a retrial for his 2014 murder conviction.
His release has raised widespread curiosity and concern among fans regarding his health as Vybz Kartel looked like a totally different person.
The Dancehall superstar had a swollen face that distorted his ‘normal’ look before he went to prison.
Vybz Kartel’s health problems include significant thyroid complications and heart issues, compounded by a diagnosis of Graves’ Disease. This autoimmune disorder affects the thyroid, leading to hyperthyroidism and various other symptoms.
As revealed in a medical affidavit obtained by FOX 5 in May 2023, Kartel’s health has considerably deteriorated over time.
Medical professionals have urgently recommended surgery due to the worsening of his Graves’ Disease and associated heart problems.
Dr. Karen Phillips, Kartel’s private physician, previously emphasized the necessity for immediate surgical intervention, pointing out that his thyroid condition had not adequately responded to medication.
The effects of these health issues have been visually apparent, as described by his defense.
“His neck was swollen, if you think of a shirt that is about 18.5 inches in the neck area, you couldn’t close the collar on his neck and that’s how bad it is at this moment. His face is actually swollen. And one other thing: He always wears glasses; in this condition, that causes his eyes to protrude.”
Since his imprisonment in 2011 for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams—whose body has never been recovered—Kartel has faced significant health challenges.
His conviction was based on a dispute involving two unreturned firearms and involved co-defendants Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St. John. The prison environment, described as “inhumane” by human rights attorney Isat Buchanan, has further impacted his health.
In a recent ruling, the Jamaica Court of Appeal declined to order a retrial, citing factors such as the long time elapsed since the crime, lack of witnesses, and financial constraints as reasons for not pursuing further legal action. As Vybz Kartel embarks on this new chapter, many are left reflecting on both his legacy in music and the serious health challenges he faces.
Related: Vybz Kartel back in the streets of Jamaica after nearly 13 years in prison
