WATCH HIM

Viral One-Hit Wonder Star Gets 30 Years for Killing Cousin

The rapper is best known for his viral 2015 song, “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae).”

Rapper Silentó, real name Ricky Hawk, has been given a 30-year prison sentence for murdering his cousin, the Associated Press reported. Silentó, 27, pleaded guilty to the shooting, including charges of voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm. He said he was mentally ill as part of a plea deal, which dropped the murder charge. Silentó is best known for the viral 2015 song, Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae), which included a dance that became popular across social media channels. The Atlanta-Journal Constitution reported that Frederick Rooks III, Silentó’s cousin, was shot dead early on the morning of January 21, 2021. It is still unclear what led to the shooting. “Over the past several years, Ricky has been suffering immensely from a series of mental health illnesses,” said Silentó’s manager Chanel Hudson at the time. “We will continue in his efforts of treatment, but we ask in the meantime the public uplift him and his family in immediate prayer and positive energy!!”