Beyoncé is facing backlash after reportedly letting go of her longtime stage manager, Terry Cooley, after more than two decades of service without providing a severance or retirement package. The news has gained attention after Terry Cooley’s daughter, Mairi, shared her family’s story in an emotional TikTok video.
According to Mairi, her father worked tirelessly for Beyoncé for over 20 years, often clocking 22-hour days while on tour. He had been with the singer since her days in Destiny’s Child and played a pivotal role in her live shows and production management. Despite dedicating his life to maintaining the quality and precision of Beyoncé’s performances, Terry was reportedly dismissed after his health declined, a condition his doctors attribute to the grueling demands of his job.
Mairi explained that after the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted touring schedules, Terry’s pay became sporadic. To support his family during the downtime, he reportedly had to drain his savings, sell his family home, and move in with his mother. When he returned to work, his performance reportedly suffered due to his health struggles, leading to his dismissal.
The family claims that after more than 20 years of service, Terry received no severance pay or acknowledgment of his contributions. Mairi said her father did not even receive a get-well card, leaving him facing both financial and emotional hardship. She emphasized that her father’s dedication had been central to Beyoncé’s career, yet the family now finds themselves struggling in the aftermath of his dismissal.
In her TikTok video, Mairi urged the public to pressure Beyoncé to rectify the situation or at least apologize for the way her father was treated. She also referenced a video produced by Beyoncé’s team, still available on YouTube, titled “The Mrs. Carter Show: Go For Terry,” which highlights his contributions to the singer’s career.
Terry Cooley’s story has ignited conversations online about the demands placed on those behind the scenes in the entertainment industry, highlighting the challenges faced by staff who support high-profile performers while remaining largely out of the spotlight.
Is Beyoncé wrong?
