Justin Bieber has settled a years-long financial dispute with former manager Scooter Braun, ending a tense standoff over millions tied to his canceled Justice world tour. The agreement, finalized just days after Braun resigned as CEO of Hybe America, closes a chapter that had cast a shadow over the pop star’s career.
Sources familiar with the matter confirm that Bieber will repay $26 million to Braun, covering a portion of a $40 million advance the singer received from AEG in 2022. That sum had been issued in anticipation of a global tour that never materialized.
When Bieber pulled out, citing health concerns, AEG demanded its money back. Braun’s company, Hybe, paid the amount up front, leaving Bieber responsible for reimbursing the label. After making an initial payment, he reportedly stopped.
As part of the settlement, Bieber will also pay Braun an additional $5.5 million—half of the $11 million Braun claimed in unpaid management commissions. The compromise comes after months of private negotiations, spurred by growing headlines surrounding Bieber’s finances. Public speculation intensified in recent months, with reports suggesting the 31-year-old faced mounting debts and internal strain.
The timing of the settlement coincides with Bieber’s latest career pivot. His seventh studio album, Swag, debuted at No. 1 on Apple Music last week.
He also launched a new fashion label, SKYLRK, signaling an effort to rebrand and expand beyond music. While the commercial success of Swag may suggest stability, many close to the artist say the pressures behind the scenes remain unresolved.
In May, a documentary reignited debate over Bieber’s decision to sell his music catalog, with some insiders framing it as a financial lifeline rather than a strategic move. One source close to the singer described him as emotionally distant and increasingly isolated from longtime collaborators.
“He’s been making decisions that feel impulsive,” the source said. “It’s affected every part of his life—business, friendships, and finances.”
The new agreement with Braun brings resolution to one of Bieber’s most pressing liabilities. But it also raises questions about how the singer will manage future challenges. Once a teen icon with global reach, Bieber now faces the harder task of sustaining relevance and rebuilding trust.
For now, Bieber appears focused on moving forward. Whether this marks a turning point or another chapter in a tumultuous decade remains unclear. But with debt repaid and a new album on top, he’s betting on a fresh start.
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