Revolt, the media company co-founded by Sean “Diddy” Combs, released a statement expressing deep sadness and disturbance over a video showing the rapper assaulting Cassie. Despite Combs’ recent separation from Revolt, the company felt it was necessary to address the matter due to the impact it had on their staff, audience, and the culture they represent. Revolt emphasized their solidarity with abuse victims and their commitment to upholding values and integrity, standing firmly against domestic abuse and advocating for truth and accountability. They also shared the contact information for the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
The video of Combs assaulting Cassie took place in March 2016 at a hotel in Los Angeles, where he chased her through a hallway while wearing only a towel. The disturbing footage showed Combs grabbing Cassie by the neck, throwing her to the floor, kicking her, and dragging her by her sweatshirt. The incident was part of a lawsuit filed by Cassie against Combs, accusing him of rape and physical abuse. Despite maintaining his innocence, Combs settled the lawsuit the day after it was filed. Revolt did not mention Cassie by name in their statement.
Cassie, born Casandra Ventura, dated Combs for 10 years before the lawsuit was filed. The video release by CNN showed one of the physical altercations Cassie had described in her suit. In the aftermath of the incident, Cassie was seen with visible bruises on her legs and arms at a red carpet event. The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office declined to file charges against Combs due to the statute of limitations. Combs had temporarily stepped down as chairman of Revolt in 2023 following the lawsuit.
Revolt, founded by Combs and Andy Schuon in 2013, condemned the actions shown in the video and reaffirmed their commitment to being a fearless advocate against domestic abuse. The company maintained its stance against any form of abuse and stressed the importance of accountability and truth. While the video depicted a distressing situation, Revolt did not shy away from addressing the gravity of the incident and expressing support for victims of abuse. The National Domestic Violence Hotline was promoted at the end of their statement for those seeking help.
The release of the video brought renewed attention to the allegations made by Cassie against Combs, shedding light on a troubling aspect of their past relationship. The disturbing nature of the footage highlighted the severity of the abuse that had reportedly taken place. Despite the legal outcomes of the lawsuit and the decision not to press charges, the impact of the incident and the subsequent fallout reverberated through both Combs’ personal life and his professional ventures. Revolt’s response reflected the seriousness of the situation and their dedication to addressing issues of abuse within their community.
