Sean (Diddy) Combs is being sued by a former child actor for alleged sexual abuse
Listen to this article
Average 4 minutes
The audio version of this article was created by AI-based technology. It can be mispronounced. We are working with our partners to continuously review and improve the results.
WARNING: This article contains graphic content and may affect those who have experienced sexual violence or know someone who has.
Sean (Diddy) Combs is being sued by an unnamed former child actor who alleges Combs sexually assaulted her at a Hollywood networking event in May 2007.
The disgraced hip-hop star is serving a 50-month sentence in federal prison after being convicted of prostitution-related charges.
Here's what we know.
What are the allegations?
According to a legal document obtained by CBC News, at a 2007 event in the Hollywood Hills, Combs allegedly told the young actor – who filed the lawsuit as JOHN YH ROE – that he thought he would be a good candidate for an upcoming project he was producing.
The lawsuit alleges that Combs then asked to speak with her privately about “certain opportunities” before leading her to a back room and closing the door.
There, Combs allegedly gave the minor an alcoholic drink before touching her, despite the actress saying she “didn't feel comfortable with the way Defendant Combs was touching her.”
It was then alleged that Combs pulled down the pants and underwear of the young actor, before performing oral sex on the child while touching himself.
The civil complaint does not specify the plaintiff's age at the time of the trial but notes that “at all relevant times, and on or about May 2007, the plaintiff was a minor under the age of 18.”
The plaintiff, also the plaintiffs who represented him at the time, filed a lawsuit on June 8 and is asking for a trial.
What does Combs' team say?
CBC News contacted representatives for Combs, who issued a statement denying the allegations.
“This is completely false and made up. Mr. Combs never sexually assaulted you,” wrote Judah S. Engelmayer, a spokesman for Combs.
“These allegations will be disputed like all the others. He will follow all the channels to protect himself and make sure that those who started and spread the lies are affected.”
Why was Combs arrested?
Last year, Combs was convicted of two counts of trafficking and is currently serving a more than four-year sentence at New Jersey's Fort Dix prison.
He was convicted by a jury of two counts of violating the Mann Act but was acquitted of the more serious charges of fraud, conspiracy and sex trafficking.
The investigation into Combs stems largely from his “rogue” sex groups, in which prosecutors say some people were forced to participate against their will.
The verdict attracted a lot of media attention at the time, including speculation – and criticism – about the light sentence he received.
In late 2023, ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, who became a key witness in the federal case, accused Combs of rape and physical abuse. The case was dismissed.
Since then, he has been sued by many people but has consistently denied any wrongdoing in civil cases.
Combs has made efforts to have his sentence reduced, including asking for clemency from US President Donald Trump.
Support is available for anyone who has been sexually abused. You can access crisis lines and local support services through this Government of Canada website or i Completes the database of the Canadian Sexual Violence Association. If you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, please call 911.
