Madison Square Garden (MSG) maintained a database of approximately 40,000 names, including a subset of roughly 400 celebrities and public figures tagged with specific risk designations. Leaked following a data breach, the records categorize high-profile guests by perceived risk levels and, in some instances, note their race, gender, and sexual orientation. The list, which also covers the Sphere in Las Vegas, serves as a "talent" management tool for the venues operated by companies under the control of James Dolan, chairman and CEO of Madison Square Garden.
Risk Categorization and Celebrity Oversight
The database utilizes a tiered system to label individuals, ranging from "flagged" to "low," "medium," and "high" risk. According to reporting by WIRED, which analyzed the leaked files, the list includes prominent musicians and actors. Rappers Freddie Gibbs, Lil Jon, DaBaby, and A Boogie Wit da Hoodie are identified as "high risk," while Jadakiss and Fat Joe are marked as "medium risk." Other figures, including Anna Wintour, Morgan Wallen, and actor David Harbour, also carry a "medium risk" designation.
The "low risk" category includes a wide array of entertainers, such as Ice Spice, Selena Gomez, Michael Strahan, and Mariska Hargitay. Other individuals, including actor Will Harrison, were simply "flagged," while some, like the members of the group The Lox, appeared on the list without a specific risk label.
Tracking Sexual Orientation and Demographics
Beyond risk assessments, the database contains demographic notations that have drawn scrutiny. The documents include a column identifying individuals as "LGBTQIA." Performers such as Ricky Martin, Phoebe Bridgers, and Emily Green of Geese were among those with this specific label attached to their profiles. The purpose of tracking this information within a venue management database remains unclear.
Connection to Previous Venue Controversies
This database is not the first instance of Madison Square Garden utilizing internal tracking methods for event attendees. In 2023, it was reported that the company used facial recognition technology at its venues. At that time, the policy was used to identify and deny entry to attorneys from law firms actively involved in litigation against the company. That practice prompted a legal challenge, which was eventually resolved in favor of the venue’s parent company.
"Do Not Host" Policies and Public Criticism
The leaked documents also detail a "not to be hosted" or "do not host" category, which denies certain individuals complimentary tickets. This list includes actress and model Julia Fox, comedian Adam Pally, and hip-hop producer Pete Rock.
The designations appear linked to public criticism of James Dolan. Notes attached to Adam Pally’s entry cite his "previous comments" regarding the company’s management as the reason for his status. Similarly, Pete Rock has publicly called for boycotts of the venue’s ownership, and Jadakiss has previously voiced criticism of the organization. Conversely, some individuals labeled as "medium risk," such as Fat Joe, have maintained public support for the venue’s leadership, including performing at team-related events.
Keep reading