Internationally acclaimed composer and Lion King producer Lebo M has broken his silence about the allegations that he suffered a legal defeat in the United States after his US$27 million lawsuit against Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi was dismissed.
In a statement, released by his Publicity Manager Simphiwe Majola , Lebo M said headlines circulating on social media and other digital platforms have misrepresented what transpired in court by suggesting he lost the case.
According to Lebo M, the matter was not dismissed on its merits and no court ruled against him or found that his claims lacked legal basis.
Instead, he said, the parties reached a mutual settlement, resulting in the matter being withdrawn and dismissed without prejudice.
Lebo M further explained explains that a dismissal without prejudice does not amount to a legal victory or defeat for either party because no court considered the merits of the case or made findings of fact or law.
He added that neither party was declared the successful litigant and that the claims remain legally preserved and may be pursued again in future if necessary.
“As such, describing the outcome as a major legal victory or suggesting that Lebo M lost the case is incorrect, misleading and legally inaccurate,” he stated.
Lebo M’s also said the proceedings concluded through a negotiated settlement rather than an adverse court judgment.
The statement added that throughout the dispute, Lebo M consistently favoured dialogue over prolonged litigation and repeatedly sought constructive engagement.
He said the settlement should therefore be viewed as a mutually negotiated resolution rather than a courtroom victory for either side.
The composer also criticised what he described as sensational reporting that implied the court ruled in favour of Jonasi.
He said the court neither declared Jonasi innocent of the allegations nor rejected Lebo M’s legal claims after hearing evidence.
Similarly, he said, the court did not determine liability in his favour, as the proceedings ended once the parties reached an agreement and withdrew the matter.
Lebo M said he remains focused on his decades-long international career and continues to prioritise advancing African storytelling, developing new creative ventures and promoting South African excellence on the global stage.
He also thanked his supporters, industry colleagues and members of the media who have reported responsibly, urging the public to rely on verified legal facts rather than sensationalised social media commentary.
