2 Chainz is speaking out after facing backlash over his conversation with food critic Keith Lee on Kirk Franklin’s “Den of Kings” podcast. The Atlanta rapper has apologized for his remarks and revealed that he and Lee spoke privately after filming, making it clear that there was no lingering tension between them.
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, 2 Chainz addressed the controversy with a message acknowledging that his comments did not come across the way he intended.
“I got a chance to speak to Keith after the podcast, and it was all love. I know my words offended some people and I apologize for that. What I said and what I meant were two different things. I could’ve done a better job getting my point across.”
The apology follows a widely discussed exchange during the latest episode of “Den of Kings,” which brought together 2 Chainz, Keith Lee, comedians Desi Banks and Mojo Brookzz, and host Kirk Franklin. Recorded at Clark Atlanta University, the conversation explored success, criticism, personal experiences, and the responsibilities that come with having influence.
Things became uncomfortable when 2 Chainz brought up restaurant reviews and questioned Lee about criticism involving Esco Restaurant & Tapas, a business associated with the rapper.
Lee, who has built a following through his restaurant reviews, explained why he prioritizes the experiences of everyday customers over the special treatment celebrities sometimes receive.
He described sending his mother-in-law into multiple Atlanta restaurants, where she struggled to receive service. According to Lee, those same establishments were suddenly able to accommodate him once his identity became known.
Made to order and shipped to your door.
For Lee, that inconsistency represents a major problem. His restaurant recommendations influence where people spend their money, and he wants customers to receive service comparable to what he experiences.
2 Chainz pushed back, arguing that celebrities receive certain privileges because of the work they have put into building successful careers. He used examples of preferential treatment, including airport lines, to explain his perspective.
That argument quickly became one of the episode’s most controversial moments. Viewers questioned whether financial success and fame should determine how customers are treated, especially when businesses depend on regular patrons to remain successful.
The discussion also touched on Lee’s experience as a former professional fighter. 2 Chainz questioned whether years of restrictive dieting could influence his approach to food reviews. Lee responded by explaining how his athletic background helped develop his knowledge of nutrition and passion for cooking.
Another controversy emerged when viewers suggested that 2 Chainz may have confused Lee with fellow food reviewer Mr. Chimetime, who previously criticized Esco Restaurant & Tapas.
As clips circulated online, the conversation expanded into a debate about celebrity privilege, customer service, and accountability within the restaurant industry.
Lee maintained that supporting businesses and holding them accountable for customer experiences are not mutually exclusive.
Now, 2 Chainz is acknowledging that his delivery could have been better. His statement does not walk back every opinion he expressed during the podcast, but it does include an apology to people who were offended.
He also says his private conversation with Lee ended positively, suggesting the two were able to move beyond their public disagreement.
