LONDON (BN24)— British rapper and Netflix star Ghetts, whose real name is Justin Clarke-Samuel, has been charged in connection with a fatal hit-and-run in Ilford, northeast London, authorities confirmed. The 41-year-old allegedly struck a 20-year-old man on October 18 and failed to stop at the scene, police said.
The victim later died in hospital, prompting prosecutors to expect a formal change in the charge from causing serious injury by dangerous driving to causing death by dangerous driving at the next court hearing. Ghetts appeared at Stratford Magistrates’ Court on Monday and was remanded into custody. He is scheduled to appear at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on October 27. Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward to assist with their investigation.
Ghetts, a prominent figure in British music and culture, has collaborated with artists including Skepta, Stormzy, and Ed Sheeran. He won the Best Male Act at the 2021 MOBO Awards and received the MOBO Pioneer Award in 2024 for his contributions to British black culture. His 2021 album, Conflict of Interest, reached number two on the UK album charts and has received extensive airplay on national radio stations including BBC Radio 1, Kiss 100, and BBC Radio 1Xtra.
The artist has also been recognized for his live performances, having appeared at Glastonbury in 2024, as well as previously in 2022 and 2008 on the BBC Introducing stage. In addition to his music career, Ghetts starred in the critically acclaimed Netflix series Supacell in 2024. Originally from Woodford Green in East London, he remains a widely influential figure in the UK entertainment scene.
Authorities have emphasized the seriousness of the incident and urged anyone who witnessed the crash or has information to contact the police. The investigation is ongoing, and charges are expected to be updated as the legal process progresses.
