UPDATE: A bitter legal battle has erupted between music icons Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo, former partners in the legendary production duo, The Neptunes. The lawsuit, filed in January 2026, alleges that Williams has engaged in serious misconduct, including withholding payments and critical financial information from Hugo.
According to a report from Billboard, Hugo claims he is owed up to $1 million for royalties related to the 2017 N.E.R.D. album, No One Ever Really Dies. The legal documents assert that Hugo has not received his rightful share of income from album sales, touring revenues, and merchandising deals.
Hugo’s attorney has accused Williams of “self-dealing” and “concealing material information,” claiming that such actions warrant punitive damages. “Williams’ persistent failure to provide financial records constitutes a breach of the operating agreement,” the lawsuit states, highlighting the deepening rift between the once inseparable friends.
The dispute has reportedly been brewing for years, with Hugo’s legal team making numerous attempts to obtain the necessary documentation from Williams. However, these requests have allegedly been ignored or inadequately addressed, leading to escalating tensions.
“Plaintiff has been deprived of the transparency necessary to evaluate buyout proposals,” Hugo’s lawyers argue, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
This lawsuit marks a significant turning point in their relationship, which has deteriorated over time. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Pharrell acknowledged the breakdown of their friendship, stating, “I love him, and I always wish him the absolute best, and I’m very grateful for our time together.”
As this legal drama unfolds, fans and industry insiders are left wondering how it will impact the legacy of The Neptunes and their contributions to music. The outcome could reshape the dynamics of their professional relationship and potentially set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the entertainment industry.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as new details emerge from the courtroom.
