Veteran producer Jermaine Dupri is once again at the center of a heated debate after resurfacing remarks he originally made in 2019 in which he stated that he believed late rapper Nipsey Hussle was “Jesus.” The comments went viral this week after being shared on social platforms, prompting renewed discussion and strong reactions from fans and critics alike.

Dupri’s Statement and Spiritual Comparison

In a recent Substack post, Dupri revisited a tweet from the day of Nipsey Hussle’s memorial service that read, “I believe Nip was Jesus.” He explained the perspective behind the statement and reflected on Hussle’s impact. Dupri wrote that people often become uncomfortable when profound figures are compared to religious icons and emphasized how Nishsey’s work brought unity and inspiration to communities.

Dupri elaborated that watching Hussle’s influence — especially in reconciling longtime feuds and motivating people in Los Angeles — led him to express his thoughts through spiritual metaphor. Dupri also referenced biblical themes while explaining that his intention was personal and reflective, not literal.

Backlash From Fans and Religious Voices

You absolutely right ! It’s niggas on here saying I’m jumping on the nip bandwagon after he passed, but they ain’t never had a conversation with him and most of y’all ain’t never even seen him in person but y’all wanna call me all kinda names cause of how his presence made ME…

— Jermaine Dupri (@jermainedupri) January 14, 2026

When Dupri’s original tweet first appeared in 2019, it drew sharp criticism on social media from fans and religious commentators who viewed the comparison as inappropriate. Many argued that while Nipsey was respected and inspirational, equating him directly with a religious figure like Jesus was misleading and offensive to some believers.

Reactions ranged from support of Hussle’s legacy as a community leader and motivational voice to pushback emphasizing fundamental religious beliefs that reserve the term “Jesus” for the central figure of Christianity. A segment of people on social platforms reiterated this perspective during the recent viral resurgence of the quote.

Continued Debate Over Hussle’s Legacy

Nipsey Hussle, who was killed in 2019, is widely remembered not only for his music but also for his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community investment in his South Los Angeles neighborhood. Hussle’s influence extended beyond entertainment — inspiring grassroots empowerment and unity among youth and local leaders.

As the discussion around Dupri’s statement continues online, it highlights the ongoing emotional resonance of Nipsey Hussle’s life and legacy, and how deeply fans and observers interpret his meaning in both cultural and spiritual contexts.