Fugees rapper Pras Michel has undergone emergency surgery after being diagnosed with colon cancer.
The procedure has resulted in the delay of a court hearing connected to his conviction on charges of illegal foreign lobbying and conspiracy.
Michel had been scheduled to appear in court on Friday for a hearing to determine how much money he would be required to forfeit following his 2023 convictions. However, a filing made by his legal team last week stated that he had “experienced a significant medical concern” that prevented him from attending.
In a statement given to Billboard, Michel’s spokeswoman confirmed that doctors identified colon cancer during a routine examination.
“Pras missed Friday’s sentencing hearing while undergoing emergency surgery for colon cancer removal,” the spokesperson explained.
“We stand with him and his family and wish him a full recovery as he addresses this serious health matter.”
Made up of Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, and Michel, the Fugees became global stars in the 1990s with hits such as Killing Me Softly and Ready or Not. After breaking up in 1998, all three members went on to pursue solo projects and attempted several reunions.
In 2019, Michel was charged by federal prosecutors for allegedly directing money into Barack Obama’s 2012 presidential campaign.
He was also accused of attempting to block a Justice Department investigation into the scheme and of working to influence an extradition case on behalf of China during the Trump presidency.
In April 2023, Michel was found guilty on 10 counts, including conspiracy, witness tampering, and failing to register as a foreign agent for the People's Republic of China.
