Global music star Lil Nas X has been arrested and hospitalised following a disturbing incident in Los Angeles in the early hours of Thursday, August 21, 2025.
The 26-year-old rapper, known for his hit Old Town Road, was spotted shortly after 4 a.m. wandering down Ventura Boulevard in Studio City, wearing nothing but underwear and cowboy boots, with a traffic cone perched on his head.
Video Captures Surreal Scene
Footage obtained and seen on TMZ shows the Grammy winner staggering in the street as passing drivers slowed to record. In the clip, Lil Nas X appears disoriented and exchanges brief words with the person filming him. His unusual appearance quickly drew comparisons to New York’s infamous “Naked Cowboy,” though onlookers said the singer seemed in distress rather than performing.
Police Response and Arrest
According to LAPD, several emergency calls were made by residents reporting “a nearly nude man in traffic.” When officers arrived around 6 a.m., they say Lil Nas X became aggressive, at one point striking an officer before being restrained. He was booked on misdemeanour charges including battery on an officer and obstructing police.
- Authorities also suspected a possible drug overdose. The artist was briefly hospitalised for evaluation before being transferred to Van Nuys Jail, where he will remain through the weekend pending a Monday court appearance.
Growing Concern for His Well-Being
The incident has sparked concern among fans and industry peers. Just months earlier, Lil Nas X revealed he had suffered facial paralysis linked to a neurological condition. Thursday’s meltdown has prompted speculation about his health, with some questioning whether substance use or mental exhaustion may have played a role.
No Word From His Team
As of Friday August 22 2025 morning, representatives for Lil Nas X have not commented publicly. Online, reactions have ranged from shock to sympathy, with many urging compassion rather than ridicule.
For now, it’s unclear what comes next for the rapper. What is certain is that this incident has sparked questions about the pressures of fame, his health, and whether this was a performance or a real crisis.
