Following a violent and near-fatal prison stabbing, Toronto rapper Tory Lanez has received public backing from fellow Canadian superstar Drake, who is calling on California Governor Gavin Newsom to grant the embattled artist a pardon. The support comes amid growing concern for Lanez’s safety while serving his 10-year sentence and renewed debate about the fairness of his conviction.
The Stabbing Incident
According to reports, Lanez—whose real name is Daystar Peterson—was stabbed multiple times in the yard at California Correctional Institution in Tehachapi. The attack left him hospitalized with severe injuries. TMZ confirmed that Lanez sustained 14 stab wounds, including seven to his back, four to his torso, two to the back of his head, and one to the left side of his face. Both of his lungs collapsed, and he was placed on a breathing apparatus before being stabilized.
A statement posted to Lanez’s Instagram account reassured fans that he is now breathing on his own and in relatively good spirits:
“Despite being in pain, he is talking normally, in good spirits, and deeply thankful to God that he is pulling through. He also wants to thank everyone for the continued prayers and support.”
The severity of the attack has sparked major concern among fans and advocacy groups, raising questions about Lanez’s safety while incarcerated and the responsibilities of correctional authorities to protect high-profile inmates.
Drake’s Call for Clemency
Drake took to Instagram on May 16, 2025, urging support for Tory Lanez’s release. In a brief but heartfelt post, he wrote:
“@torylanez come home soon.”
Alongside his message, Drake shared a Change.org petition advocating for a gubernatorial pardon. The petition emphasizes that Lanez has not been treated fairly and argues that his sentence failed to account for mitigating circumstances surrounding his case. By leveraging his influence, Drake has amplified the conversation around Lanez’s safety and the broader issues of justice for incarcerated individuals.
Tory Lanez’s Legal Background
Lanez is currently serving a 10-year prison sentence following his 2022 conviction on three felony charges connected to the 2020 shooting of fellow artist Megan Thee Stallion. He was found guilty of:
Assault with a semiautomatic firearm
Carrying a loaded unregistered firearm in a vehicle
Discharging a firearm with gross negligence
The conviction and sentencing sparked widespread debate about celebrity accountability, the criminal justice system, and issues surrounding gun violence in the U.S.
Drake and Lanez: From Feud to Friendship
Although Drake and Lanez were once embroiled in a public feud, the two Toronto artists reconciled in 2017. That year, Drake confirmed the truce via an Instagram post and later brought Lanez on stage at OVO Fest, performing the hit “Controlla” together.
Since their reconciliation, Drake has occasionally shown subtle support for Lanez. In December 2024, during his “Drizzmas Giveaway” livestream with Adin Ross, Drake toasted to Lanez, saying:
“3 up T, man. 3 up T. I know they don’t want to hear me say that. 3 up T.”
Ten months prior, he had posted a cryptic Instagram message that read simply: “3 u,” further signaling his support. Drake’s public backing during this latest crisis marks one of his strongest endorsements of Lanez to date.
Public Reaction
The stabbing incident and Drake’s advocacy have ignited intense discussion across social media. Fans of both artists have expressed concern, relief, and anger—some directed at the justice system for perceived harsh sentencing, others at correctional authorities for failing to ensure Lanez’s safety.
Many supporters have praised Drake for using his platform to draw attention to the case, seeing it as a meaningful intervention from a fellow artist with significant cultural influence. The Change.org petition has gained traction rapidly, with thousands of supporters urging Governor Newsom to consider clemency for Lanez.
Implications for the Justice System
The case raises larger questions about prison safety, particularly for high-profile individuals. While Lanez’s sentence stems from serious felony convictions, the stabbing highlights potential risks and vulnerabilities within the correctional system. Advocates argue that celebrity inmates often face heightened danger due to notoriety, making proper protection a critical issue.
Additionally, the incident has reignited conversations about the fairness and consistency of sentences in cases involving firearms, celebrity defendants, and violent crimes. Lanez’s supporters argue that mitigating factors were not adequately considered during his trial, and that the severity of his punishment warrants reevaluation.
Lanez’s Recovery and Future
Tory Lanez is reportedly recovering in a Bakersfield hospital, with medical staff closely monitoring his progress. While he is expected to regain full physical health, the psychological trauma from the stabbing incident could have long-lasting effects.
Drake’s call for Lanez to return home soon reflects not only solidarity but also a plea for justice tempered with compassion. Whether or not the Governor acts on the petition, the visibility of the campaign ensures that Lanez’s situation will remain in the public eye.
Conclusion
In the wake of the prison stabbing, Tory Lanez faces both physical recovery and an uncertain legal future. Drake’s vocal support has amplified public concern and placed pressure on authorities to consider Lanez’s safety and potential clemency.
The incident underscores the complex intersection of celebrity, crime, and justice, highlighting how public figures like Drake can influence discourse and advocate for fellow artists. As Lanez continues his recovery, fans, fellow musicians, and social media communities will be watching closely, hoping for a safe resolution and an eventual return to the music scene.
