Unlike most of us, there is no set age for our favorite celebrities to retire. Some do so at age 18, others never do. That’s why now, The Root is taking a closer look at 15 musicians, athletes and actors and diving into who exactly should reconsider stepping away from the medium they love. Of course, this is all in jest! We love everyone on this list… but for some of y’all? It’s time to hang it up permanently.
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Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys has been giving us hits for well over two decades. From “Fallin’” in 2001 to “Show Me Love” in 2020, it’s clear that she still has the artistic stamina to deliver when necessary… but over the years, she’s slowed down on the music making. After her last few projects, many folks have expressed interest in seeing her take a full step away from music and invest in other ventures. Keys has her own skincare line and has even been a coach on “The Voice,” so at 44 years old, it might be time to put on her mentor hat permanently.
Tyler Perry
It’s no secret Tyler Perry has faced tons of criticism over the years. The entertainment mogul says he’s not fazed by the hate, but that doesn’t stop folks from wishing he’d simply put the pen down. After films like “Divorce in the Black” and “Straw,” many have called him out for using similar scripts, bad wigs and perpetuating negative stereotypes of Black women. Perry has no plans to retire, but if he wanted to, he’d be doing so with a long-lasting legacy and millions of dollars.
Ice Spice
Sure, Ice Spice is only 25 years old, but she’s been the face of much scrutiny ever since she hopped into the rap game. Originally, fans loved her catchy lyrics, red hair and boujee aesthetic, but now? Folks are getting tired of seeing and hearing the same things from the Bronx rapper. Her debut album “Y2K” under performed, despite having a major co-sign from the queen of rap, Nicki Minaj. And now a year later, Ice Spice isn’t the household name she once was in 2023.
Kanye West
Sighs… As much as Kanye “Ye” West is a cultural icon and musical genius, he had to make this list. Over the past few years, Ye’s music has been tainted with controversies, mental health issues and questionable romantic relationships. From aligning himself with President Donald Trump to spewing anti-Semitism and anti-Black hate speech, West is simply not the same rapper and producer once adored by Black culture and by fans around the world. It’s time for him to take a step away from the spotlight and focus on being the best father he can be for his children.
Rihanna
Speaking of parenthood, we’ve watched Rihanna transition from Bad Gal RiRi to a soon to be mother of three. And we’re here for it! Next year will officially mark one full decade without a Rihanna album, and her fans have been starving for more. But let’s be real, given that she and A$AP Rocky are living their best lives as parents on top of the Bajan billionaire’s very successful businesses outside of music, the chances of Navy getting another album just gets smaller and smaller as the years go by. It’s time for Rihanna to rip off the bandaid and officially announce her retirement from music. That way, her fans can grieve and finally move on!!
Young Thug
After pleading guilty to racketeering charges, fans hoped Atlanta rapper Young Thug would turn over a new leaf. Instead of focusing his music on gang life, drugs and beef, many wished he would grasp his second chance of freedom and become a more positive role model. Unfortunately, that hasn’t happened– although it’s only been nine months since he walked free from an Atlanta jail. Instead, Thug has ramped up his one-sided beef with ex-YSL member Gunna. On top of that, the music Thug has released so far has not been enough to impress fans or mainstream radio. Maybe what the Atlanta legend needs is an official break from music.
Future
Future is another Atlanta rap icon, but unlike Young Thug, he’s been in the rap game for much longer. At age 41, Future has dropped more music than most vets do in their lifetime. Much of the criticism towards the rapper concerns the content of his songs, however. He’s known as a “toxic king,” but many fear he will never be able to give fans more than just that. How long can he keep up with the toxicity before folks get tired of the same subjects?
Nicki Minaj
Now, before the Barbs go crazy… hear us out. Nicki Minaj has been running the female rap game for over 10 years. She helped opened the doors for a new wave of rappers like Megan Thee Stallion, City Girls, Latto, Cardi B, Flo Milli and much more. With that, sometimes it’s best to quit while you’re ahead. Many music lovers thought her “Queen” album would’ve made the perfect final project from Minaj, but the Queens rapper sill hasn’t retired yet. After giving so much of her life and art to the world, it might be time for Minaj to sit back and enjoy her flowers. This means staying out the drama and letting the next female rappers take over.
Lil Wayne
It’s been a rough couple of years for Young Money. Between Nicki’s beef with Megan Thee Stallion, Drake’s beef with Kendrick Lamar and Lil Wayne’s imaginary war also with Lamar, we don’t know who needs a break more (it’s definitely Drake). In all seriousness, Lil Wayne’s most recent project “Tha Carter VI” proves he’s well-past his prime, although he can still rap like no one’s business. Wayne doesn’t need to release any more projects. He doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone anymore. Instead, he’ll likely remain on hip-hop’s greatest of all time list, especially if he clocks out now.
LeBron James
If it’s one thing LeBron James will do it’s spark retirement rumors. He’s the oldest player in the NBA, and honestly, that’s the only reason he’s on this list. If you’ve watched him play, you know he’s still got it! But any contact sport will begin weighing on your body after long periods of time. At 40 years old, James has spent more time playing in the NBA than he has not (22 years). He teased fans, saying once his eldest son, Bronny, gets to the NBA, he’d consider retiring… and welp. We’re going into Bronny’s second season on the Lakers. So now, it’s time for James to make a decision.
Diddy
This one is pretty self explanatory. After fighting for his freedom and life in a federal trial, the last thing Diddy needs to do is jump head first where he left off before his arrest. Diddy was found guilty on two lesser prostitution charges and is still facing 20 years behind bars. But when he does get out of prison, he’ll be standing at a crossroads: bow out of the spotlight for good or put what’s left of his businesses and professional relationships at risk as his public support continues to dwindle.
Beyoncé
Beyoncé is arguably the greatest performer of all time. With that, it’s more than surprising that the singer is still able to give her fans innovative shows and unbelievable vocal performances so far into her 27-year career. Plus, the singer has experienced several injures to her knee, foot and even her voice that have basically given her overprotective Bey fans heart attacks over the years. This year, she turns 44 years old. There’s not too many other singers and performers around her age that still are dedicated to putting on exhausting shows as she does. That’s why fans have speculated that after her highly anticipated Act III, following “Cowboy Carter” and “Renaissance,” Beyoncé will announce her retirement.
Simone Biles
The “G.O.A.T.” has hinted at retirement for a couple of years now. Simone Biles has proven herself beyond comprehension in the gymnastics world, and with 11 Olympic medals– seven being gold ones– there’s no one topping her athleticism. With nothing left to prove, Biles would be competing simply as a hobby, but all good things have to come to an end. At the same time, Biles said she’s looking at possibly returning for the 2028 Olympics, which will be held in the U.S.
50 Cent
50 Cent just turned 50 years old. Throughout his career, the New York rapper has transitioned from music to television, which hit shows like “Power” and “B.M.F.” And although we love 50 Cent as a rapper, it’s time he officially announce he’s done with music. Clearly, he spends most of his time away from the mic anyways. If he’s not trolling Diddy and Ja Rule online, he’s producing another television show.
Jennifer Hudson
Talents like Jennifer Hudson only come once ever so often. After reaching EGOT status in 2022, Hudson decided to shift to daytime television. The “Jennifer Hudson Show” has been a major success, largely do to the viral spirit tunnels of her guests as they walk onto her main stage. She has been criticized for her interviewing skills, but that can be taught. So with that, it’s time for her to focus on that, instead of music. The singer dropped a Christmas album in 2024, making this only her fourth since her American Idol debut.
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