Ashanti Opens Up About Life-Altering Stalking Ordeal on Investigation Discovery’s Hollywood Demons

Grammy Award-winning singer Ashanti is speaking candidly about the terrifying stalking ordeal that changed her life forever. In the April 28 episode of Stalking the Stars on Investigation Discovery’s series Hollywood Demons, the “Baby” singer detailed the unsettling harassment she endured for years at the hands of a convicted stalker.

Ashanti, now 44, reflected on how what began as seemingly innocent fan admiration crossed dangerous boundaries.
“I have some of the most amazing fans in the world, so I always try to be gracious,” Ashanti shared. “But it does get a bit invasive.”

The ordeal began in 2009 while Ashanti was starring as Dorothy in The Wiz on Broadway. Her mother started receiving disturbing pictures and texts from an unknown man who expressed a delusional desire to “be together” with the singer.
“He would comment on my performances, criticize my relationship with Nelly, and even tried to get invited to my home,” Ashanti revealed.

As the harassment escalated, the singer grew increasingly concerned for her family’s safety. “It makes you feel scared,” she said. “This red line was being crossed—not just for me, but for my family, who didn’t ask to be part of this.”

Stalking Turns Dangerous

The messages soon turned threatening. Ashanti described receiving pictures of her car parked outside the theater and aerial photos of her home.
“That’s when we knew it was serious,” she said. “My parents and I decided it was time to involve law enforcement.”

Authorities arrested Devar Hurd, an Indiana man, later that year. Hurd was initially sentenced to two years in prison for stalking and sending sexually explicit messages but served only one year. Despite a no-contact order issued by the court, Hurd continued to pursue Ashanti.

In 2014, Hurd sent disturbing images of himself with Ashanti’s younger sister, Kenashia Douglas, and harassed her via social media, leading to another arrest for aggravated harassment and stalking.
Over the years, Hurd stood trial four times between 2009 and 2016. In one trial, he even represented himself, forcing Ashanti to endure cross-examination by her own stalker—an experience she described as “really weird” and retraumatizing.

A mistrial occurred due to a juror’s illness, but in 2016, Hurd was convicted again of felony second-degree stalking and received a four-year sentence. However, he was released after serving just one year.

Ashanti Reflects on the Lasting Impact

Ashanti said the stalking ordeal profoundly changed her life.
“It’s unsettling, disheartening, and it makes you question who the real victim is,” she said. Despite the trauma, she remains hopeful: “The feeling is hope—hope that rehabilitation happens, hope that he gets the message, and hope that it’s finally over.”

New Beginnings: Engagement, Pregnancy, and Motherhood

On a brighter note, Ashanti and longtime love Nelly rekindled their relationship in 2023, a decade after their initial breakup. In April 2024, the couple announced their engagement and revealed that they were expecting their first child together.
By August, Ashanti joyfully welcomed their baby, sharing on Instagram, “Funny how life’s plans aren’t…always on time,” referencing her 2001 hit song “Always on Time” with Ja Rule. “I’ve been waiting to be a mom for a long time now, but nothing could prepare me for EVERYTHING motherhood brings!”

Where to Watch Hollywood Demons

The final episode of Hollywood Demons, featuring Ashanti’s emotional recounting, airs tonight at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Investigation Discovery (ID) and is available to stream on Max.

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