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Madison Square Garden Reportedly Tracked Celebrities, Including Sexual Orientation, on "Risk" List

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Madison Square Garden Reportedly Tracked Celebrities, Including Sexual Orientation, on "Risk" List
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Madison Square Garden Reportedly Tracked Celebrities, Including Sexual Orientation, on "Risk" List

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A recent report has brought to light an alleged internal list maintained by Madison Square Garden, which reportedly categorized various celebrities, musicians, and actors based on perceived "risk" levels.

This development is significant as it suggests a systematic approach to tracking public figures, potentially influencing their access or treatment at the venue.

According to the report, the list, described as a "talent" database, contained nearly 40,000 names, with approximately 400 celebrities receiving a specific risk designation.

These designations ranged from "flagged" to "low risk," "medium risk," and "high risk." Notable figures reportedly labeled "high risk" include rappers Freddie Gibbs, Lil Jon, DaBaby, and A Boogie Wit da Hoodie.

"Medium risk" individuals reportedly included Jadakiss, Fat Joe, Morgan Wallen, Lily Allen, David Harbour, and Anna Wintour.

Beyond risk assessments, the report indicates that the list also contained more personal details, such as race, gender, and in some cases, sexual orientation.

Ricky Martin, Phoebe Bridgers, and Emily Green of Geese were among those reportedly marked as "LGBTQIA," with a total of 89 individuals receiving this designation.

The purpose behind tracking such personal information remains unclear.

"Low risk" celebrities reportedly included Ice Spice, Selena Gomez, Benson Boone, Michael Strahan, Mariska Hargitay, Tracy Morgan, Edie Falco, and Ben Stiller.

The list also noted some individuals as "not to be hosted" or "do not host," meaning they would not receive complimentary tickets.

Actress Julia Fox, comedian Adam Pally, and hip-hop producer Pete Rock were reportedly among those on this "do not host" list.

The report suggests a potential link between some of these designations and past criticisms of James Dolan, the chairman and CEO of Madison Square Garden.

For instance, Adam Pally's "non-comp tickets" designation reportedly came with the memo "due to previous comments," and he has been noted for criticizing the Knicks' management.

Pete Rock, who once called for a boycott of Dolan, was also on the "do not host" list.

However, the report also notes that some individuals with risk tags, like Fat Joe, have been supporters of Dolan.

This alleged list, which also applies to The Sphere in Las Vegas, a venue owned by Dolan's companies, reportedly came to light after data was stolen and ransomed by hackers.

A representative for Madison Square Garden has stated that the reporting is "inaccurate and false" and that MSG is "pursuing legal remedies."

This is not the first time Madison Square Garden has faced controversy regarding its tracking practices.

In 2023, reports emerged that the company used facial recognition technology to prevent lawyers from firms suing the venues from attending events, leading to a lawsuit that was ultimately dismissed.

Source: Consequence of Sound

Key points

  • Madison Square Garden reportedly kept a "risk" list of nearly 40,000 names, including musicians, actors, and other celebrities.
  • The list allegedly categorized individuals with designations like "high risk," "medium risk," "low risk," and "flagged."
  • Some entries on the list reportedly included notes on individuals' race, gender, and sexual orientation, with 89 marked as "LGBTQIA."
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