Jamaican dancehall powerhouse and icon Vybz Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, walked free from prison on July 31, 2024 after 13 years and his health condition have left many fans in shock and disbelief. He is grappling with an autoimmune disease called Graves’ Disease that has caused his face noticeably swollen.

Although his conviction was overturned months ago by the Privy Council in London, authorities in Jamaica had time to decide whether he should be retried.

The Jamaica Court of Appeal decided against ordering a retrial for his 2014 murder conviction, setting the stage for his release.

Kartel’s return to the public eye has sparked a wave of concern and curiosity, especially regarding his health. He now looks strikingly different from his pre-prison days.

His once-familiar features are marred by a swollen face and an alarming change in appearance.

The dancehall star’s health issues are severe. He’s grappling with significant thyroid problems and heart issues, compounded by Graves’ Disease, an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism.

According to a medical affidavit obtained by FOX 5 in May 2023, his condition has worsened over time. Doctors have urgently recommended surgery due to the progression of his disease and related heart troubles.

Dr. Karen Phillips, Kartel’s private physician, has stressed the need for immediate surgery, noting that his thyroid condition has not improved with medication.

His health problems are visibly evident, with his neck and face swelling noticeably. His defense team described his condition in stark terms:

“His neck is so swollen that it’s like trying to fasten a shirt collar that’s way too tight. His face is puffy, and his glasses make his eyes appear protruding.”

Kartel’s legal troubles began in 2011 when he was convicted for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams, whose body has never been found.

The “World Boss” conviction involved a dispute over two unreturned firearms and implicated co-defendants Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St. John.

The harsh prison conditions, described as “inhumane” by human rights attorney Isat Buchanan, have further strained his health.

In their recent decision, the Jamaica Court of Appeal chose not to order a retrial, citing the long time elapsed since the crime, the lack of available witnesses, and financial limitations.

As Vybz Kartel begins this new chapter of his life, both his musical legacy and the serious health challenges he faces are under intense scrutiny.

What led to imprisonment of Vybz Kartel

The “World Boss” as he is popularly known was jailed for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams in Jamaica but has always maintained his innocence.

In 2014, the trial revealed that Clive Williams and another man, Lamar Chow, had been entrusted with two unlicensed firearms belonging to Vybz Kartel for safekeeping.

When the men failed to return the guns on schedule, prosecutors claimed they were summoned to Kartel’s house in August 2011.

Chow testified that they were attacked at the house, and the last thing he saw was Clive Williams, who has never been seen alive again, lying motionless on the ground.

The house was destroyed by fire shortly afterward, and Williams’ body was never recovered.

Despite maintaining their innocence, Kartel and his co-defendants: Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones, and Andre St. John—were convicted and sentenced to life in prison. Kartel was given a minimum term of 35 years.

Some of Vybz Kartel’s hit songs

Clarks, Rambo Kanambo, Summer Time, Romping Shop, Conjugal Rights, Fever, Coloring Book, Jeans and Fitted