Flashback: The Kehlani and Kyrie Irving Cheating Scandal That Shook the Internet

Back in 2016, social media erupted over one of the most talked-about celebrity scandals of the year—the alleged cheating controversy involving singer Kehlani and NBA star Kyrie Irving. What began as a high-profile romance between the soulful R&B artist and the Cleveland Cavaliers point guard quickly spiraled into a media frenzy that pulled in fans, critics, and even other celebrities.
At the height of their relationship, Kehlani and Kyrie Irving seemed to be the perfect match. Fans were rooting for their union, and the couple shared affectionate photos and messages online. However, the narrative took a dramatic turn when an Instagram post by Kehlani’s ex-boyfriend, rapper PARTYNEXTDOOR, showed her in bed with him, sparking rumors that she had cheated on Kyrie.
The internet wasted no time jumping to conclusions. Accusations of betrayal flooded Kehlani’s social media accounts, leading to intense cyberbullying and emotional distress for the young singer. In the days following the post, Kehlani deleted her Instagram and later shared a deeply personal message revealing she had attempted suicide due to the overwhelming backlash and emotional pain.
What many didn’t know at the time was that Kehlani and Kyrie had already broken up before the controversial photo surfaced. Kyrie would later confirm this in a public statement, clarifying that Kehlani didn’t cheat and that he wished her nothing but the best. Despite the clarification, the incident left a lasting impact on both their public images and Kehlani’s mental health journey.
This flashback reminds us of the power—and danger—of internet speculation. In a digital age where stories can go viral in seconds, it’s easy to forget the real lives and emotions behind the headlines.
Today, both Kehlani and Kyrie Irving have moved on to achieve continued success in their respective careers. Still, the 2016 scandal remains a pivotal moment in pop culture history and a cautionary tale about judgment, mental health, and the intense spotlight of fame.