It was on the 19th of April, 2025 that rapper Kevin Gates blew the lid off a volcano on the Internet with the confusing, odd, and strange comments he made about NBA star LeBron James and his wife, Savannah. Gates did not stop there since he had his third album released under the title I’m Him 2 on the 19th of March of the same year.
What initially seemed like an individual opinion eventually developed into a public argument. This, in turn, made fans question whether it was just a PR stunt, or something real.
Gates Calls Out Savannah James
Kevin Gates took this matter to social media by sharing a most unexpected commentary related to LeBron James’ marriage that went viral (the video). He pointed out to Johntvi Anthonim that Savannah had this very evil look and almost as if she did not support LeBron by not showing her excitement.
“I don’t like the way Savannah look at LeBron,” continued Gates. “You act like you came here to police me.”
The remarks instantly generated a lot of reactions. Critics slammed the comments as inappropriate and accused Gates of rudeness. The James family’s supporters were the first to jump to the defense of Savannah, praising her loyalty and gentle demeanor.
LeBron Responds with Class
It only took a short time for LeBron James to counterattack. Nevertheless, he did not choose a video or a rant as an attacking method. Instead, he put up a photo of himself and Savannah in the company of other smiling people with only a few, yet sharp words as a caption:
“Kings don’t concern themselves with the opinions of peasants. Where to next, Queen? Let’s get it!”
The post went viral instantly. The majority of the audience especially appreciated the calm and self-respectful way LeBron handled the situation. That showed the audience quite a good example of how“letting success do the talk” works.
Gates Is Talking Out of the Corner of His Mouth Again
Kevin Gates released another video after LeBron put his response out there in which he tries to justify his actions. He stressed that he never intended to hurt anyone and that he was actually a fan of LeBron. “Bron, I love you. You my n***a,” Gates said.
He insisted he was only expressing how he felt, not trying to cut someone down. Nonetheless, his words only continued to upset the followers and thus were deemed irreparable.
No matter if it was an honest mistake or a deliberate act to draw attention, it got people talking about Gates for weeks.
I’m Him 2: New Music, Same Energy
The timing was mixed up in that particular way when Kevin Gates had just launched I’m Him 2, the next album following his 2019 project I’m Him. The release presents the rapper’s familiar blend of tough lyrics, street chronicles, and emotional revelations.
Some critics argue that the album marks a return to the best moment. Songs such as “Cold Hearted Again” and “Protect My Peace” represent Gates’ fight to remain sane amidst his public image struggles.
Even before the LeBron situation, the album was already creating a stir. Now though, more people are tuning in — be it good or bad.
Gates and Brittany Renner Are Seen Together
On top of that, a video clip was released of Gates appearing next to model Brittany Renner at NBA games’ live audience. Both have been sending flirty vibes to each other on social media and have been seen together at public events in the past.
Their relationship status is not confirmed, but fans have been making guesses about a deeper relationship. A section says that it is a smoke covering the fire. The other believes that Gates is doing everything to stay in the spotlight.
A Plan or a PR Move? Limited PR Strategy?
Kevin Gates has always been open-minded. He often expresses non-negligible viewpoints and participates in controversies. Whether he was being honest or merely kidding, this situation is just another case of his never stable brand.
However, when a famous person’s comments are not about their work but cross into personal territory and especially about someone else’s relationship, it opens the floor for a discussion on issues such as respect, privacy, and platform responsibility.
Kevin Gates might have had his album out — yet it is his words about LeBron and Savannah James that have become the most discussed issue. While I’m Him 2 is the main course for the fans, they are also waiting to see what Gates will do with the situation.
At the present time, LeBron seems to have stepped forward. Whether Gates will drop it is not clear yet.
