Msg'S Secret Celebrity Watchlist Exposed!

Madison Square Garden's Alleged Celebrity Database

Madison Square Garden (MSG) is embroiled in controversy over allegations that it has been secretly keeping tabs on celebrities visiting the venue. According to a bombshell report from Wired, MSG maintains a database categorizing "hundreds" of celebrities, including famous Knicks superfans and even some of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding guests. These individuals are reportedly labeled with tags like "DO NOT HOST," "LGBTQIA," and various risk levels ranging from low to high.

ShinyHunters: The Hacker Group Behind the Revelation

The hacker collective known as ShinyHunters has claimed responsibility for exposing this database. Active since 2019, the group has previously leaked data from 60 companies over a 15-month period, drawing the attention of international authorities. Their latest data dump includes a staggering 45 gigabytes of information.

Risk Ratings for Celebs and More

The database's existence has reportedly put a strain on relationships with some celebrity fans. For instance, rapper Fat Joe, despite his status as a Knicks superfan and close ties with MSG owner James Dolan, is classified as "medium risk." His risk rating is allegedly due to his connection with Jadakiss, another rapper who has been openly critical of Dolan.

“They just seem overly interested in queer and trans people in their venue,” commented Evan Greer of Fight for the Future.

Furthermore, the database doesn't just track risk levels. It allegedly includes information on race, gender identity, and sexual orientation, with 93 entries marked "LGBTQIA," including artists like Ricky Martin and Phoebe Bridgers.

MSG's Alleged Political Agendas and Legal Battles

The database also suggests that MSG might be using complimentary tickets to support its political interests. It lists 32 political candidates allegedly backed by MSG PAC, along with "hundreds" of current and former officials. These entries contain details of their "claim to fame," which for some involved supporting a permit renewal for MSG in 2023.

In response to these explosive claims, MSG has vehemently denied the accuracy of the Wired report. "Wired’s reporting is inaccurate and false. MSG is pursuing legal remedies," a spokesperson told Digital Music News.

Legal Ramifications and Public Outcry

The situation has sparked a legal battle, with a class-action lawsuit filed against MSG last month. This lawsuit argues that the data leak is a consequence of Dolan's "growing surveillance state."

"This scandal underscores why MSG Entertainment should not be collecting and retaining sensitive customer information in the first place," said Dario Maestro, legal director at the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project.

As the story unfolds, the revelations have left many questioning MSG's practices and its implications for privacy and celebrity culture.