After a wave of negative backlash following Kesha’s court case against her producer Dr. Luke, rumors have leaked recently stating Sony will drop Dr. Luke a year before his contract is to expire. When Sony reportedly sided with Dr. Luke during the trial, fans were outraged and claimed they would boycott Sony music and started a hashtag #Sony Supports Rape. Fans even started organized protests against Sony, trying to convey the message they wanted Kesha to be released from her contract with Dr. Luke.

Fans rejoiced when The Wrap, an website that covers entertainment news, dropped an exclusive article with information from an insider at Sony. “Kesha has no case in regards to her contract but they can’t afford the Adeles of the world out in the streets calling the label unsupportive.” Quickly, fans took to Twitter and began the hashtag #Sony Is Dropping Dr Luke Party to express they were pleased with this news.

With recent influences from other artists, this seemed quite believable. The days following the initial court case, stars like Ariana Grande, Halsey, Demi Lovato, and more expressed their support for Kesha and their disappointment in the result of the case. Taylor Swift showed support by donating money to Kesha to help compensate for her troubles. Adele announced she publicly supported Kesha during the Brit Awards, 2016 which was later followed by Kelly Clarkson speaking out about her own unpleasant experiences working with Dr. Luke. Lady Gaga has become a major supporter of Kesha’s and has recently been speaking out about rape culture with her Oscar’s performance. Gaga also posted a tweet shortly after it was rumored Sony was to drop Luke, “Do the right thing @sony #PeopleOverProfit”

Sadly this joy did not last long. A legal representative for Luke claimed these rumors were not true and that no such thing had been discussed between Dr. Luke and Sony. An organized protest was held Friday, March 11, 2016 urging Sony to make a statement. As of now, Sony has not confirmed or denied the rumors that they will drop Luke. It remains to be seen with what direction the company will take, but it will be an important one that could determine how women speaking out in the music industry are treated.