dream hampton is a prominent American filmmaker, producer, and writer whose career spans journalism, activism, and documentary filmmaking. She gained significant recognition as the executive producer of the 2019 Lifetime documentary series “Surviving R. Kelly,” which exposed decades of sexual abuse allegations against the R&B singer. The series not only sparked national conversations about sexual violence but also led to a federal investigation into the allegations, resulting in R. Kelly facing multiple criminal charges. Prior to this, hampton co-executive produced the 2012 film “An Oversimplification of Her Beauty,” showcasing her versatility in the film industry.

Hampton’s journey began in the 1990s as a music journalist, where she wrote for influential publications such as The Source, Vibe, and Essence. Her bold critiques of hip-hop culture, particularly regarding misogyny and materialism, established her as a significant voice in the genre. She co-wrote Jay-Z’s memoir “Decoded,” further solidifying her status as a key figure in hip-hop journalism. Her early editorial work was marked by a commitment to addressing social issues, as seen in her controversial piece on Dr. Dre’s violence against women.

In addition to her work in film and journalism, hampton has been an active advocate for social justice. She co-organized Black August, a benefit concert for political prisoners, and directed the documentary “Treasure,” which focused on the tragic killing of a transgender woman. Her activism extends to her role on the board of Color of Change, where she continues to fight for racial and social justice.

Hampton’s contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Peabody Award for “Surviving R. Kelly” and a Ms. Foundation Gloria Award. She was also named on the Time 100 list in 2019, highlighting her impact on culture and activism. As she continues to explore new projects, including a Netflix docuseries on female rappers, dream hampton remains a powerful voice advocating for change in both the arts and society.