What had happened was …
The plot just thickened. Caroline Wanga, former CEO of ESSENCE Ventures and Sundial Media and Technology Group, has filed a lawsuit against the company for defamation. The bombshell news was delivered June 11 through Schaefer Halleen LLC, a firm out of Minneapolis, Minnesota, who is representing Wanga in the matter.
The news was made public via a press release, one that outlines Wanga’s claim that is tied to the decline of ESSENCE Festival of Culture (ESSENCE Fest), specifically the most recent festival that occurred July 4, 2025. Wanga, who was on leave from her post in September 2024 due to “health-related leave” and ultimately stepped down as CEO of the company in March 2025, however agreed to announce the split after the festivities.
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Why was a lawsuit filed?
The complaint alleges that “ESSENCE Ventures and Sundial leadership refused to protect the Black woman who protected them,” after Wanga was lambasted for the “disastrous” outcome of ESSENCE Fest 2025, the statement detailed. The complaint states that Wanga made several requests, asking that the company course correct by making it publicly clear “she was not involved with the festival, she had been on a health-related leave, and neither her heritage nor her prior employment had any connection to the programming or sponsorships of the festival.”
Wanga posted images of both the release and the legal complaint on her Instagram page with a hashtag that reads, “ISaidWhatISaid.”
Where did it all stem from?
Numerous accounts about the festival’s shortcomings were shared across social media, many of which highlighted how poorly executed the event was compared to previous years. Stephanie Mills’ critique was especially scathing. The legendary R&B singer called out ESSENCE for subpar experience as a billed performer, citing lateness, tech issues and a lack of organization and professionalism, AUNTIE previously reported.
“The scheduling and time management were severely lacking, creating a chaotic and stressful environment backstage,” Mills stated in an open letter posted on Instagram.
“This disorganization cascaded onto the stage, impacting the flow of the event and ultimately diminishing the quality of the performances.”
ESSENCE Communications has since responded in a social media post, stating Wanga’s complaint is “baseless” and “without merit.” The company states it was not obligated to clear up any confusion about Wanga’s involvement with the festival, however, did immediately let the public know she was not involved. The company also vows to defend itself as it moves forward with yet another ESSENCE Festival of Culture.
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What’s next?
Stayed tuned as AUNTIE follows this story and how ESSENCE navigates another turnover in leadership.
Stephanie Mills’ Open Letter Calls For Essence Fest To Get Its Sh*t Together, ‘Respectfully’
