According to a report by TMZ on May 14, global pop star Justin Bieber was allegedly on the brink of bankruptcy after failing to repay millions in tour-related debt.
The report claims that Bieber received a $40 million advance from concert promoter AEG before the tour began. However, when the singer canceled the Justice World Tour in 2022 due to Ramsay Hunt Syndrome—a rare neurological condition that caused partial facial paralysis—he became liable for $24 million in penalties.
To cover the massive loss, Scooter Braun’s company, HYBE America, reportedly stepped in to pay the penalty on Bieber’s behalf. Bieber then agreed to repay the amount over 10 years. However, he allegedly made only one payment before stopping altogether, citing via Braun that he had no money.
The financial tension deepened when Bieber’s team, referencing an audit by his business manager Lou Taylor, claimed Braun had been overpaid by $26 million in management fees. In contrast, HYBE America’s own audit concluded the opposite—that Bieber actually owed Braun $8.8 million in unpaid compensation.
TMZ has since released a documentary via FOX, further exploring the financial fallout and the strained relationship between Bieber and Braun.
The news marks a startling twist in the career of the Canadian singer, who debuted at age 14 and quickly rose to international fame. Known for hits like “Sorry” and “Peaches,” Bieber has enjoyed massive commercial success despite a rocky public image shaped by past controversies.