Dramatic Medical Emergency: Lil Wayne Collapses in Nashville, Rick Ross Calls 911 in “Life or Death” Panic

By Marcus Hale, Entertainment Correspondent Billboard Magazine January 6, 2026

NASHVILLE, TN — Hip-hop icon Lil Wayne was rushed to a local hospital late last night after suddenly collapsing during a private event in Nashville, prompting fellow rapper Rick Ross to frantically call emergency services in what he described as a “matter of life and death.” The incident, which unfolded in seconds amid a gathering of music industry insiders, has sparked widespread concern for the 43-year-old rapper’s health, given his long history of epilepsy and seizure-related episodes.

Eyewitnesses report that Wayne, born Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., was in good spirits earlier in the evening, mingling and even teasing an impromptu performance. The event was held at a high-end venue in downtown Nashville, part of a low-key industry meetup ahead of potential collaborations. Rick Ross, who has collaborated with Wayne on numerous tracks including the 2011 hit “John,” was by his side when the rapper suddenly clutched his head and dropped to the ground around 11:30 p.m.

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“It happened so fast—everything changed in seconds,” Ross later recounted in a brief statement shared on social media. “At one point, we didn’t know if he would survive. I grabbed the phone and called 911 myself, yelling that it was life or death.” Paramedics arrived within minutes, stabilizing Wayne on-site before transporting him to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Sources close to the situation say the collapse was likely triggered by a severe seizure, a condition Wayne has battled publicly since 2013, often exacerbated by stress, dehydration, or his demanding tour schedule.

Fans and celebrities flooded social media with prayers and well-wishes as news broke. “Praying for my brother Weezy,” posted Drake, Wayne’s longtime protégé. Birdman, founder of Cash Money Records, added, “Family first. Get well soon, lil bro.” The incident echoes Wayne’s past health scares, including multiple hospitalizations for seizures in 2017 and more recent reports of illness forcing him to miss events in late 2025.

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What complicated the situation further was the initial chaos at the scene. With no official medical team on standby for the informal gathering, Ross and others had to make split-second decisions—clearing space, checking for breathing, and debating whether to move Wayne before professionals arrived. “The room went from vibes to pure panic,” one attendee told Billboard anonymously. “Rick was the calm one in the storm, taking charge and keeping everyone back.” Security footage, which has not been released, reportedly shows Ross kneeling beside Wayne, phone in hand, as others dialed additional help.

Wayne’s team issued a statement early this morning: “Lil Wayne experienced a medical episode last night and is currently resting under doctors’ care. He is stable and expected to make a full recovery. Thank you for the outpouring of love and support.” Hospital officials confirmed he was admitted for observation, with tests ongoing to rule out any new underlying issues. This comes amid Wayne’s active 2025-2026 schedule, including recent performances and announcements for upcoming shows.

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Rick Ross, visibly shaken in a follow-up Instagram Live, elaborated on the ordeal: “I’ve seen bro go through a lot, but last night was different. Decisions had to be made quick—the situation escalated to an unprecedented stage. Grateful the medics got there fast.” The two rappers share a deep history in the industry, from joint tracks to mutual respect despite occasional label dramas. Their bond was evident as Ross stayed at the hospital into the early hours.

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The Nashville Fire Department responded to the 911 call, praising the quick actions of those on scene. “In cases like this, bystander intervention can be crucial,” a spokesperson said. Wayne has been open about his epilepsy, attributing past seizures to overwork and once nearly fatal incidents linked to substance use in his younger years. Advocates for epilepsy awareness have used his platform to highlight the condition, noting that stress from the spotlight can be a major trigger.

As of press time, Wayne remains under observation, with no discharge date announced. The hip-hop community holds its breath, hoping for a swift recovery for one of its greatest legends. This scare serves as a stark reminder of the human side behind the fame—the unseen battles that even superstars face.

The event has also sparked discussions about artist health protocols at private gatherings. With Wayne’s history, insiders question if more precautions could have been in place. For now, the focus is on healing.

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Ross concluded his comments with optimism: “Weezy tough as they come. He’ll be back spitting fire soon.” Fans echo that sentiment worldwide.