Lawyer Says Russell Simmons Has "Resolved" Settlements With Three Of His Sexual Assault Accusers

Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons has lived in Bali, promoting yoga, veganism, and spiritual wellness while calling himself a yogi. On social media, he often shares meditative reflections and photos of life at his Gdas Bali Health and Wellness Resort, where he is a founder and investor.

Yet behind the peaceful facade, Simmons faces ongoing legal and financial turmoil tied to multiple sexual misconduct allegations in the U.S. Court filings reveal he failed to pay more than $3 million in settlements owed to three women — Wendy Franco, Sil Lai Abrams, and Sherri Abernathy — who accused him of assault or related harm. The agreements, finalized in 2023, were meant to bring closure, but Simmons missed his 2024 payment deadline. As of early 2025, filings showed he still owed at least $8 million to three other women.

Franco described the nonpayment as “devastating,” while Abernathy said it felt like “living a nightmare.” Their attorney said the matter has been “resolved,” but terms remain unclear. Simmons, who claims to own no U.S. property and has cited financial hardship, faces disputes over millions tied to his ex-wife Kimora Lee and a Celsius energy drink investment. Lawyers for his accusers allege he continues to hide assets through overseas ventures.

Despite his legal and financial troubles, Simmons continues to share upbeat spiritual posts and was recently spotted in New York. For his accusers, the drawn-out battle reflects a painful reality: settlements meant to deliver justice can turn into yet another ordeal when payments never come. “He has his freedom,” Abrams said, “but he’s trapped in a prison of his own making.”

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