In August 2023, Justin Bieber shocked fans by ending his long-standing professional relationship with manager Scooter Braun, blocking him and several others, including close friends and collaborators, on social media. This decision follows Braun’s retirement announcement. Notably, Bieber unfollowed his mentor Usher after declining to support him at a Super Bowl performance. As both Justin and Hailey Bieber navigate these significant changes, questions arise about the impact of distancing from key figures in their lives.
Justin Bieber’s Shocking Break from His Former Team
In October 2008, a young 14-year-old Justin Bieber took his first significant step into the music industry by signing a record deal. From the outset, his manager, Scooter Braun, who is now 43, played a pivotal role in guiding the Canadian pop sensation through both his triumphs and challenges. The music world was taken aback in August 2023 when rumors emerged that Bieber had chosen to sever professional ties with Braun, marking not just a shift in business relationships but also a profound change in Bieber’s life.
A Digital Disconnect: Blocking Former Allies
Reports indicate that Justin Bieber has gone as far as blocking his former manager, Scooter Braun, on Instagram. In June 2024, Braun, known for managing major artists like Ariana Grande and Demi Lovato, announced his retirement from talent management. Just six months later, Bieber reportedly unfollowed and subsequently blocked Braun on social media. While Instagram doesn’t disclose blocked accounts, fans noticed the absence of Braun’s link on Bieber’s profile.
Moreover, Bieber hasn’t stopped there; he has also blocked four additional individuals from his circle. As reported by Just Jared, among those cut off is Allison Kaye, 43, who has supported Bieber since 2009. Her posts featuring the pop star have seen his profile link vanish. Even more surprising is the news that Bieber has blocked his former close friend, Ryan Good, 40, who played a significant role in shaping Bieber’s career and style. Good was even the best man at Bieber’s wedding to Hailey in September 2019.
In a further twist, fans noticed that Bieber unfollowed his mentor Usher, 46, in mid-January 2025. This came after Usher had requested Bieber’s support during a Super Bowl performance, which Bieber declined. Despite this, Bieber later expressed admiration for Usher’s talent on social media. Their last public appearance was captured in July 2022, during a vacation in Idaho, emphasizing the deep connection that seemed to have faded over time.
The distance between Bieber and his former bodyguard, Kenny Hamilton, 43, is also notable. Hamilton had been a protective figure in Bieber’s life, celebrating his 30th birthday with a heartfelt post in March 2024. In response to inquiries, Hamilton acknowledged the change in their relationship through a private Instagram message, underscoring the emotional weight of the situation.
Additionally, it appears that Bieber has also distanced himself from long-time producer Jason Boyd, 45, known as Poo Bear, with whom he collaborated on numerous hits from 2013 to 2020. The reasons behind these dramatic shifts in Bieber’s relationships remain unclear, leaving fans to ponder the implications of cutting ties with individuals who played significant roles in his life, especially those who once stood by him during pivotal moments.
Interestingly, Hailey Bieber has also indicated a reduction in her personal circle; during her pregnancy in July 2024, she shared her own struggles with familial relationships. As both Justin and Hailey navigate these changes, it remains to be seen how their futures will unfold without the support systems that once surrounded them.