Sean “Diddy” Combs has slammed the upcoming Netflix docuseries Sean Combs: The Reckoning as a “shameful hit piece,” accusing the streaming giant of using “stolen footage that was never authorised for release.” The series, produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, premieres globally on December 2.
Combs’ spokesperson released the statement on Monday, coinciding with a teaser from the docuseries. In the footage, Combs is seen on a phone call six days before his September 2024 arrest, discussing the challenges he faces in what he calls “the dirtiest of dirty businesses.” The conversation is part of a legal case that ultimately led to Combs’ conviction on two counts of transportation for prostitution, though he was acquitted of more serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering.
The statement alleges that Netflix misappropriated Combs’ personal archives, which he has been amassing since age 19 to tell his own story. His team claims the company presented his words out of context and handed creative control to 50 Cent, described as a “longtime adversary” with a personal vendetta against Combs.
Combs’ representatives further criticised Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, saying the mogul had “long respected” him and expected fairness. The statement denounced the documentary as “fundamentally unfair and illegal,” arguing that private conversations, including those with Combs’ attorneys, were never intended for public consumption.
Netflix responded through the docuseries director Alexandria Stapleton, stating, “It came to us, we obtained the footage legally and have the necessary rights. We moved heaven and earth to keep the filmmaker’s identity confidential.” The director also noted Combs has a long history of filming himself and that multiple attempts were made to secure his legal team’s participation, but they did not respond.
Diddy’s camp insists that Netflix is prioritising sensationalism over truth, exploiting his personal life for commercial gain and disregarding legal and ethical boundaries. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions over control of Combs’ narrative as the series prepares for its global release.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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