Lil Nas X’s Father Discusses Son’s Recent Arrest

Lil Nas X’s father shared his thoughts on his son’s arrest during an interview with the Times, where he criticized the intense pressures of fame that may have contributed to his son’s recent struggles.

At 26, Lil Nas X was detained and charged with assaulting a police officer after he was found in his underwear filming on the streets of Los Angeles. Reports indicated that he was taken to a hospital due to a suspected overdose. His father, Robert Stafford, noted that the pressure of celebrity can be overwhelming for individuals in the spotlight.

“I know how the music industry works,” said Stafford, 56, referring to the addictive nature of success. “It’s like a high. When you reach that level, there’s a desire to experience it all over again.”

According to the Times, Lil Nas X faces charges including one felony count and resisting an officer, which could lead to five years in prison if convicted. He pleaded not guilty and was released on a $75,000 bond, which comes with the requirement to engage in drug treatment.

Stafford emphasized the burdens his son carries as a top earner for his family, highlighting the difficulty of maintaining early career success. He mentioned the struggle of his son’s mother with addiction, contrasting the success achieved by her son.

Lil Nas X earned a spot as one of the youngest inductees into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2022. Stafford remarked on the high price of such achievement, suggesting that his son’s level of fame brings with it a host of challenges.

Stafford went on to express concern about the psychological toll this lifestyle can take, saying, “A 26-year-old shouldn’t have to shoulder so many pressures, especially ones related to family.” He added that facing struggles in the public eye is a heavy burden and reflected on his emotional support during his visits to his son.