Renowned rapper Fetty Wap, whose legal name is Willie Junior Maxwell II, has been granted an early release from federal prison, concluding a significant period of over three years behind bars. Billboard confirmed with the rapper's representatives that he was released on Thursday, January 8, approximately eleven months ahead of his original scheduled release date in December 2026. This early release marks a new chapter for the artist, known for his distinctive melodic flows that captivated the rap scene in the mid-2010s.

Following his release, Fetty Wap issued a statement expressing gratitude and outlining his future intentions. "I want to thank my family, friends, and fans for the love, prayers, and continued support — it truly means everything to me," he shared with Billboard. He emphasized a renewed focus on philanthropy and community engagement, stating, "Right now, my focus is on giving back through my community initiatives and foundation, supporting at-risk young children by expanding access to education, early tech skills, and vision care for young kids and students so they can show up as their best selves. I’m committed to moving forward with purpose and making a meaningful impact where it matters most."

Fetty Wap's incarceration stemmed from an arrest in October 2021 in Queens, New York, just before a scheduled performance at Rolling Loud NYC. A federal indictment, unsealed at the time, alleged that he was involved in transporting 100 kilograms of drugs from California for distribution in Long Island. In August 2022, he pleaded guilty to one charge of conspiring to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine. Subsequently, in May 2023, the New Jersey native was sentenced to six years in prison. He had been serving his sentence at a low-security prison located in Sandstone, Minnesota.

Despite his time in prison, Fetty Wap's musical presence continued to resonate. In June, he collaborated with Doe Boe on the track “Lil Sexy.” Remarkably, his 2015 hit single “Again” experienced a resurgence in 2025, re-entering the Billboard Hot 100 in February at No. 41 and impressively topping the TikTok Billboard Top 50. His last album, "King Zoo," was released in 2023. Throughout his career, Fetty Wap achieved significant commercial success, boasting three top 10 Billboard Hot 100 hits, including the diamond-certified "Trap Queen," "679," and "My Way," which solidified his status as a prominent figure in contemporary rap music.