In a recent revelation, Jean “Gene” Deal, a close associate of hip-hop legend 50 Cent, shed light on the chilling events surrounding the rapper’s infamous shooting in 2000. Speaking in a candid interview, Deal recounted the day when 50 Cent was shot nine times, a pivotal moment that would forever alter the trajectory of the artist’s life and career.
Deal described how he learned of the incident while at a hotel in Cancun, Mexico. He was with members of the Black Mafia Family (BMF) when he received a call from 50 Cent’s manager, who was at the hotel pool. The manager informed Deal that 50 had just been shot and was in a critical condition. “I had just spoken to 50, and he was supposed to be coming to Cancun for a show,” Deal recalled. The gravity of the news hit him hard, prompting an urgent need to reach out to 50 Cent.
Despite the chaos, Deal managed to contact 50’s girlfriend, who confirmed that the rapper was alive, albeit injured. “I was one of the dudes that called him when he got shot,” Deal stated. He expressed his relief that 50 was okay and shared his concerns about the police investigation surrounding the shooting, which he feared would complicate matters further.
When questioned about who might have orchestrated the hit on 50 Cent, Deal refrained from naming specifics but hinted at the involvement of rival factions within the music industry. He suggested that members of Murder Inc., a competing label at the time, had a role in the plot. “I know that Irv Gotti and them had put it out there like they were a part of it,” he noted, indicating that there were complex rivalries at play. Deal emphasized that while the situation was shrouded in speculation, he did not believe that Supreme, a notorious figure from the same circle, would disrespect the bond between 50 and his associates by instigating such violence.
Reflecting on 50 Cent’s rise to fame, Deal expressed his admiration for the rapper’s talent and work ethic. He recalled recognizing 50’s potential even before the release of his breakthrough hits like “In Da Club.” “I knew 50 was going to be the next one,” Deal asserted, crediting the rapper’s extensive experience as a songwriter for other artists such as LL Cool J and Lil’ Kim. His confidence in 50’s musical abilities was palpable, revealing a deep understanding of the industry and the artistry involved.
As 50 Cent emerged from the shadows of his shooting, he transformed into a formidable force in the hip-hop world, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Deal’s insights provide a poignant reminder of the darker side of fame and the violent rivalries that can lurk beneath the surface of the music industry. The repercussions of that fateful day continue to resonate, shaping the narratives of both 50 Cent and those connected to him. As the story unfolds, it serves as a testament to the resilience of artists navigating the treacherous waters of fame, survival, and betrayal.