(Photo Credits: DFree from Shutterstock)
Lil Nas X, the 26-year-old rapper and pop star best known for his record-breaking hit “Old Town Road” and chart-toppers like “Montero (Call Me By Your Name)” and “Industry Baby,” has been hospitalized following a possible overdose and subsequently arrested in Los Angeles.
#UPDATE 🚨 Lil Nas X was just booked for obstructing an officer — following his late-night escapade! https://t.co/RZ7rJdXMJg pic.twitter.com/sKYw7lxgKE
— TMZ (@TMZ) August 21, 2025
The incident occurred early Thursday morning, August 21, around 5:50 a.m. According to a report from Entertainment Weekly, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirmed receiving a call about a nude man walking in the street in the 11000 block of Ventura Boulevard.
A spokesperson for the LAPD confirmed receiving the call to Entertainment Weekly when reached for comment on Thursday, but could not identify Lil Nas X by name. The spokesperson also said the suspect was arrested for charging at a police officer.
“This morning, around 5:50 a.m., officers responded to the 11000 block of Ventura Blvd for a nude man walking in the street,” the spokesperson noted in a statement. “Upon arrival, the suspect charged at officers and was taken into custody. He was transported to a local hospital for a possible overdose and placed under arrest for battery on a police officer.”
Born Montero Lamar Hill in Lithia Springs, Georgia, Lil Nas X rose to fame in early 2019 with “Old Town Road,” a country-rap crossover that went viral on TikTok before dominating the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 19 weeks. Known for his bold artistry, flamboyant performances, and unapologetic embrace of his gay sexuality, Lil Nas X has been celebrated as one of the most influential young artists of his generation.
At just 26, the Grammy-winning musician has become a cultural icon, pushing boundaries in both music and fashion. Beyond his hit singles, his 2021 debut album Montero received widespread acclaim for blending pop, rap, and rock influences with deeply personal lyrics. Fans have been anticipating new music, as the star has teased that he’s been working on a follow-up project set to drop later this year.
The hospitalization and arrest have shocked fans and the music industry alike, as Lil Nas X has often been candid about his struggles with fame, mental health, and public scrutiny. The full circumstances leading to the incident remain unclear, and it is not yet confirmed what substance may have been involved in the possible overdose.
Representatives for Lil Nas X have not yet issued an official statement. Fans have taken to social media to express concern and support, with many urging compassion and privacy during what is likely a difficult time for the artist.
Here’s how fans have been reacting on X since the incident:
One Twitter/X user wrote, “Oh sweet baby, I hope Lil Nas is okay. These naked and alone in the street videos almost always equal mental health or medical emergency happening.”
Oh sweet baby, I hope Lil Nas is okay. These naked and alone in the street videos almost always equal mental health or medical emergency happening
— Khaleesi ✨ (@TheDejaKing) August 21, 2025
Another wrote, “this is actually heartbreaking to see…”
this is actually heartbreaking to see…
— rem (@dontsayrem) August 21, 2025
Meanwhile another fan posted, “Let’s hope he gets the help he needs.”’
Let’s hope he gets the help he needs
— AL Capone (@AL_Capone_MMA) August 21, 2025
As more details emerge, the situation underscores the ongoing pressures faced by celebrities under the public eye—especially those, like Lil Nas X, who break barriers and challenge cultural norms. As fans and the media await updates, the situation raises broader questions about mental health, celebrity pressure, and where shock value ends—and crisis begins. Read here and here for more information about this news.