Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Williams, recently secured his release with a 15-year probation deal, ending a prolonged legal battle.
The rapper, charged under Georgia’s RICO Act and accused of leading the YSL gang, surprised fans with a plea deal that included specific exceptions to his no-contact probation stipulation, allowing him to reconnect with both his biological brother and longtime collaborator Gunna.
While Young Thug accepted extensive release conditions, his lawyer, Brian Steel, argued in court for Gunna’s inclusion, stating, “He’s a phenomenal artist. They are contractually obligated. And they frequently perform and make music.”
With the judge’s approval, Young Thug and Gunna can now collaborate legally, much to the surprise of fans who believed the pair had distanced after Gunna’s own RICO-related plea deal in 2022.
Despite tensions following Gunna’s December 2022 release and rumors of “snitching,” Gunna assured fans of his loyalty in a 2023 interview, saying, “It’s the same. It’s love, always. Our relationship is our relationship.”
Young Thug’s plea agreement may support Gunna’s claims, with the possibility of new collaborations on the horizon. Notably, Drake celebrated Thug’s release by posting a screenshot of their song ‘Parade on Cleveland’ on Instagram Stories, while Travis Scott shared, “My bruddda otw home,” and T.I. welcomed Young Thug back on social media.
During his nearly year-long trial, which began with jury selection in January 2023, the case saw numerous delays, dramatic events, and even the recusal of a judge after accusations of misconduct.
Steel, Thug’s attorney, was temporarily jailed for contempt during proceedings, while a court deputy was accused of smuggling contraband and Zoom hacks led to shouts of “Free Thug!” The plea deal, granted by Superior Court Judge Paige Whitaker, represents a landmark resolution to Georgia’s longest-running trial.
Having won a Grammy and collaborated with stars like Travis Scott, Meek Mill, Post Malone, and Childish Gambino, Young Thug’s comeback could bring new music with Gunna, giving fans a fresh chapter for the duo.
