Music icon and entrepreneur Sean 'Diddy' Combs has launched a fierce attack against an upcoming Netflix documentary series about his life, labelling it a malicious and unauthorised production. The series, titled 'Sean Combs: The Reckoning,' is set for a global premiere on December 2 and is executive produced by his long-time rival, rapper 50 Cent.
A Strong Denunciation and Accusations of Theft
Through an official spokesperson, Combs issued a strongly worded statement condemning the project. He characterised the docuseries as a "shameful hit piece" constructed from "stolen footage that was never authorised for release." The statement was released just one day before the series' scheduled launch on the streaming giant.
The controversy centres on video material featured in the recently released teaser. In the clip, Combs is seen on a phone call that was reportedly recorded just six days before his arrest in 2024. This call later became evidence in the legal proceedings that led to his conviction on a charge of transportation to engage in prostitution. It is important to note that he was acquitted of more severe charges of sex trafficking and racketeering.
Conflicting Claims: Stolen Footage vs. Legal Acquisition
Combs' team vehemently disputes the legitimacy of the footage's use. His spokesperson argued that the clips have been taken out of context. They revealed that Combs has been archiving personal footage since he was 19 years old, with the intention of one day telling his own story. The statement accused Netflix of misusing this personal trove.
In response to the allegation of stolen footage, a Netflix representative directed inquiries to a statement from the documentary's director, Alexandria Stapleton. She asserted, "It came to us, we obtained the footage legally and have the necessary rights." Stapleton added that the team went to great lengths to protect the identity of the filmmaker who provided the material and noted that requests for comment were sent to Combs' legal team multiple times without a response.
Personal Vendettas and a Question of Fairness
The statement from Combs' camp did not hold back in criticising the involvement of 50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis Jackson. It described him as "a longtime adversary with a personal vendetta who has spent too much time slandering Mr. Combs." The spokesperson expressed dismay that Netflix would grant creative control of the project to him, calling the decision "staggering."
Interestingly, the statement also directly addressed Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, mentioning that Combs has "long respected" him and expected fairness from people he held in esteem. This suggests a sense of betrayal aimed at the platform's leadership for greenlighting the project.
According to its official synopsis, 'Sean Combs: The Reckoning' promises an in-depth examination of the mogul's life—from his meteoric rise with Bad Boy Entertainment and shaping hip-hop's mainstream appeal to launching stars like The Notorious B.I.G. and Mary J. Blige. The series also hints at exploring darker aspects of his ambitions, featuring interviews with former associates and never-before-seen materials. The clash sets the stage for a major showdown in the court of public opinion as the documentary streams worldwide.
