The following article includes discussion of attempted suicide.
The only issue was that Morvan and Pilatus did not sing the music they performed.
The actual singers were Charles Shaw, Brad Howell, andJohn Davis, who would eventually diefromCOVID-19 complications.
However, just months before winning their trophy, suspicions began to arise.
During a live MTV performance on July 21, 1989, the track they were lip-syncing began malfunctioning.
Panicked and knowing they were not the voices being heard on the song, the men fled the stage.
In December of that year, Shaw came forward and exposed the group.
However, he was paid $150,000 to recant his story.
After the revelation, the music industry took swift action to punish the men, whose careers never recovered.
However, Farian refused, which led to the group contemplating confessing themselves.
Sadly, this did not sway the Recording Academy, who decided to revoke the duo’s Grammy.
With their biggest accolade being taken back, fans turned on Milli Vanilli.
Several lawsuits were filed against the pair and Arista Records, the American label that signed them.
Supporters accused Morvan and Pilatus of several crimes, including racketeering and fraud.
In August 1991, Arista agreed to a $25 million refund settlement to consumers.
He ended up in a rehab center in California but left after a short stint.
Morvan continued pursuing music.
However, once Pilatus died, it was shelved.
Morvan unveiled a solo album, “Love Revolution,” in 2003.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available.
Call or text 988 or chat988lifeline.org
