Deon Cole posted Nicki Minaj fan DMs after hosting the NAACP Image Awards, and the screenshots are heavy.
After taking the stage as host of the NAACP Image Awards, Deon Cole delivered a series of jokes that included punchlines about Nicki Minaj. While some viewers laughed it off, others did not. Soon after the show aired, Cole jumped on Instagram to show what he says landed in his inbox.
The screenshots he shared appear to show multiple direct messages filled with insults, threats, and racist language. In one message, a user referenced a neurological disability while using a racial slur. In another, someone wrote violent comments about his late mother. Cole also posted messages where users mocked his appearance and accused him of clout chasing.
He addressed the situation directly in his Instagram post, making it clear he was not backing down from the jokes. Instead of issuing an apology, he put the spotlight on the tone of the messages. By sharing the DMs publicly, Cole shifted the conversation from the jokes themselves to how far online harassment can go when fans feel protective over their favorite artists.
Nicki Minaj has one of the most loyal fan bases in music. So when her name becomes part of an award show monologue, reactions online move fast. However, the messages Cole posted crossed into graphic and racist territory.
The NAACP Image Awards celebrate Black excellence across film, television, music, and literature. As host, Cole followed the tradition of comedians roasting pop culture moments and celebrities. Award show hosting often includes sharp humor, but social media has changed how quickly backlash can escalate.
So far, Nicki Minaj has not publicly responded to the situation. Cole also has not indicated whether he plans to take further action beyond exposing the messages.
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