Rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs issued an apology on Sunday for his behavior in a recently released video that shows him physically abusing his ex-girlfriend in 2016. Combs stated that he has been to rehab, therapy, and turned to God for mercy and grace. In a short video posted to Instagram, he expressed remorse for his actions, calling the video “disgusting” and admitting it was taken during one of the darkest times in his life. The video, captured almost a decade ago, shows Combs shoving, kicking, and grabbing his then-girlfriend Casandra Ventura, also known as “Cassie,” who later sued him for abuse and settled the lawsuit last year.
Ventura’s attorney criticized Combs’ apology as disingenuous, stating that it was more about himself than the people he has hurt. Combs had vehemently denied the allegations made by Ventura during her lawsuit, accusing her of seeking a payday. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office deemed the video extremely disturbing but stated they would not bring charges due to the statute of limitations for the crime in California. Since Ventura’s lawsuit, several other women have come forward with allegations against Combs, including claims of rape, sexual abuse, and sex trafficking.
Diddy and Ventura dated on and off from 2007 to 2018, starting when she was 19 years old. In a lawsuit filed in November seeking $30 million, Ventura stated she was beaten, raped, and trafficked during their relationship. The suit was settled for an undisclosed amount just one day after it was filed. Other women have also come forward with allegations against Combs, including claims of drugging and rape from as far back as the early 1990s. Music producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones filed a lawsuit against Combs, alleging sexual harassment, drugging attendees at his house parties, and running a sex-trafficking venture. In response to these allegations, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson announced that his production company is working on a documentary about the rape allegations against Diddy, with proceeds to be donated to victims of sexual assault.
The disturbing video and subsequent allegations have shed light on a darker side of the music industry, prompting conversations about accountability and justice. While the District Attorney’s Office may not pursue charges due to the statute of limitations, the impact of these allegations on Combs’ career and reputation remain to be seen. The #MeToo movement has brought heightened awareness to issues of abuse and misconduct, and it is clear that voices are being heard and action is being taken. The documentary being produced by 50 Cent signals a growing push for transparency and accountability within the entertainment industry, as survivors continue to come forward to share their stories.
