From Love & Hip Hop to the latest Offset drama, let’s unpack the queen that is Cardi B

By Fatou Ferraro Mboup

Updated Jan 5, 2024 at 03:22 PM

Reading time: 3 minutes

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Image courtesy of Neil Rasmus from Shutterstock

Widely regarded as one of the most commercially successful female rappers of her generation, Cardi B has recently been making headlines following her latest split from husband and fellow rapper Offset. But before we get into the details of their tumultuous relationship and eventual breakup, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to first answer some of the most searched queries regarding the ‘WAP’ singer to keep you informed on everything you need to know, from her rise to fame to her net worth. You’re welcome.

Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar Cephus, more commonly known as Cardi B, is an American rapper and actress who stands as a prominent figure in the realm of hip-hop and entertainment. Born and raised in the Bronx, New York City, Cardi B first worked at an Amish deli in Tribeca as a teen. She was fired and became a dancer at a strip club across the street, stating that working as a stripper was positive for her life in many ways. “It really saved me from a lot of things. When I started stripping I went back to school,” she once revealed.

Then in 2015, Cardi B started making waves online after featuring on the VH1 reality TV show Love & Hip Hop: New York. At just 22, she brought unparalleled confidence and a dash of irreverence, making her stand out as the series’ sixth season’s breakout star.

Navigating the male-centric hip-hop industry on the show proved challenging. Cardi faced scepticism from cast members regarding her musical talent. However, her unwavering belief in herself and her unique personality endeared her to fans, setting the stage for a trajectory that would defy expectations.

Fast forward to June 2017, Cardi B dropped the bombshell that would redefine her career, the infectious track ‘Bodak Yellow’. The song quickly became the anthem of the summer and catapulted Cardi into the limelight. When it claimed the No.1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in July, she etched her name in history as the first solo female rapper since Lauryn Hill in 1998 to achieve this milestone.

The success of ‘Bodak Yellow’ unlocked doors to collaborations with industry giants like Rihanna, Bruno Mars, Lizzo, and Megan Thee Stallion. Cardi’s dominance in the female rap scene became unequivocal, marking her journey from the streets of New York to the pinnacle of global music.

The stark contrast between Cardi B’s humble beginnings, as depicted in Love & Hip Hop, and her Billboard triumph painted a narrative that resonated with fans. The girl from the Bronx, entangled in the gritty struggles of reality TV, emerged as a symbol of resilience and success. Her story became an anthem for those striving to break free from their circumstances.

As Cardi’s career soared, her personal life became fodder for public intrigue. Rumours swirled about her relationship with Offset, a fellow rapper from the group Migos. Their public appearances and displays of affection fueled speculation, from their very first date at the Super Bowl to Offset’s grand proposal during a Philadelphia concert in October 2017. “I can’t wait to spend FOREVAAAA with you,” Cardi wrote on Instagram following the surprise proposal. “Let’s make a lot shmoney and love together.”

In no time, Cardi B and Offset had a double dose of joy with the arrival of their little ones—with their daughter Kulture on 10 July 2018, and their son Wave on 4 September 2021. But, hey, the celebrity ride wasn’t all rainbows and butterflies. Instead, it was quite a rollercoaster of drama, navigating marriage under the spotlight and wrestling with rumours of infidelity, a split, a reunion, an application for a divorce and an eventual second reconciliation.

Cardi B’s net worth stands tall with an impressive $80 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.

Beyond the mic and the stage, Cardi B demonstrated her savvy business acumen. Serving as the face of Pepsi and launching her brand of non-dairy, vodka-infused whipped cream called Whipshots, she diversified her portfolio.

 

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The rapper’s brand alignments with Reebok and Real Women Are, the first minority women-owned doll brand, underscored her commitment to diversity and empowerment. Cardi’s strategic collaborations elevated her beyond a music sensation to a shrewd entrepreneur, leaving an indelible mark on various industries.

Yes, you heard that right. McDonald’s teamed up with Cardi B to create an exclusive menu just for her and husband Offset. In a statement, the fast food chain declared: “In honour of the season of love, we’re serving up the first-ever celebrity duo meal with lifelong McDonald’s fans–Cardi B and Offset, that’s perfect for sharing with your plus one, your situations, your best friend, or anyone in between. Starting February 14, fans can pull up to participating restaurants nationwide to get the Cardi B & Offset Meal, which includes each of their go-to menu items plus their favourites to split on date night.”

However, just as McDonald’s unveiled its latest menu in Chicago on 13 February 2023, it appeared that Cardi B and Offset’s relationship status had its own set of surprises—sort of like the unexpected twists in the quality of McDonald’s food. Life’s full of surprises, isn’t it?

Amid her flourishing career and thriving business ventures, Cardi B faced the harsh reality of announcing her divorce from Offset. The six-year marriage, marked by public displays of affection and persistent rumours of infidelity, seemingly became a challenge too difficult to overcome.

The rapper announced on social media her separation from Offset during an Instagram live, stating that she had been single for a minute now but was afraid to tell the world.

One thing is for sure. Even after this announcement, Cardi B’s journey continues to evolve, leaving an indelible imprint on the music industry and beyond.