Hours after his interview with CBS aired on Wednesday (March 6), R. Kelly was taken into police custody regarding unpaid child support payments.
As reported by the Associated Press, the R&B singer was taken into custody during a hearing over unpaid child support. Per the Chicago Tribune, the singer was warned to pay the outstanding amount the last time he appeared before a judge residing over the matter.
Less than two weeks ago, the singer posted a $100,000 bond after being arrested on 10 charges of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, thanks to the help of a “close friend.”
The alleged unpaid child support is reportedly for more than $161,000. His failure to comply with the judge’s order to pay the back child support has landed him in police custody once again. He was found in contempt during a hearing on Wednesday and, according to reports, must pay a sum of $161,663 in order to be released from jail. His next court date is March 13.
According to Kelly’s publicist, Darryll Johnson, the singer showed up with $50,000 or $60,000, which was not enough to appease the judge. Johnson also shared with the Chicago Tribune his client is now “depressed, deflated and upset” upon learning he would be returning to jail.
Earlier Wednesday morning, R. Kelly spoke with CBS “This Morning” host Gayle King, giving his first interview since he was indicted in February. During the emotional and unhinged interview, Kelly maintained his innocence, claiming those who have accused him of sexual misconduct are lying.
Oprah, Ava DuVernay and countless others have taken to social media to react to the explosive interview.
“There’s a lot going on in these R. Kelly clips,” DuVernay shared on Twitter. “But one thing that jumps out is how direct, super clear and no frills these questions are by @GayleKing. She’s asking exactly what most of us would ask if we were in her seat. Crazy how refreshing it is. Speaks to how rare it is.”
Oprah also echoed the acclaimed director’s sentiments, calling for CBS to release the full interview, which reportedly went on for over an hour.
Take a look at the full interview here and see how celebrities and music fans are reacting below.