Diddy, the influential figure in hip-hop and the entertainment industry, is now facing four lawsuits from women who claim he s**ually victimized them and evaded consequences due to his power and wealth.
These lawsuits have shed new light on long-standing allegations of violence against Diddy and have led to brands severing ties with him and Hulu canceling his upcoming reality show.
The first lawsuit, filed by singer Cassie, who was signed to Diddy's label and dated him, alleges that he coerced her into having s** with male s** workers while he filmed, and later raped her.
The most recent complaint comes from a woman identified as Jane Doe, who says that when she was 17 in 2003, Diddy flew her on a private jet to New York where he and two other men drugged and gang-raped her.
These women have come forward due to recent changes in New York laws that allow civil lawsuits alleging s**ual abuse, even if the statute of limitations has expired.
The window for filing these lawsuits closed in late November, which explains the surge in recent complaints.
Diddy has denied all allegations and vowed to fight for his name and the truth.
His spokesperson declined to comment further on the lawsuits.
These cases have garnered attention because Diddy was a powerful executive and gatekeeper in music and fashion, and they highlight the music industry's failure to address abuses of power, even during the Me Too movement.
Diddy is just one of many powerful men whose alleged past conduct is being revisited with fresh scrutiny, thanks in part to changes in the law.
Comparisons are being drawn between Diddy and R. Kelly, with 50 Cent announcing plans to produce a series about Diddy in the style of “Surviving R. Kelly,” with proceeds going to assault survivors.
This showcases the enduring impact of the Me Too movement and the ongoing reckoning with s**ual assault and harassment.
Diddy built an empire spanning music, media, and fashion.
He founded Bad Boy Records in 1993, signing Notorious B.I.G.
and producing iconic '90s acts.
He also launched the fashion label Sean John and promoted various brands.
Despite previous allegations of violence, including arrests, these reports did not receive widespread attention until now.
In November, Cassie filed a lawsuit against Diddy, alleging years of abuse, including assault and s** trafficking.
The suit was settled within a day, but it paved the way for other women to come forward.
Three additional lawsuits have been filed against Diddy, accusing him of drugging, raping, coercing, and choking the plaintiffs.
These lawsuits have prompted companies and influential individuals to distance themselves from Diddy.
Diageo removed his image from its website, and Capital Preparatory Schools announced the end of its association with him.
Diddy stepped down as chair of Revolt, a TV network he helped establish.
These cases against Diddy are part of a larger trend of accusations against major figures in the music industry.
Neil Portnow, former head of the Grammy Awards, and music executive L.A. “Babyface” Reid have also faced lawsuits alleging s**ual assault and harassment.
This highlights the fact that the music industry has not been immune to the Me Too movement's effects.
The lawsuits against Diddy serve as a reminder that the Me Too movement has brought about lasting changes, influencing laws and policies and empowering survivors to come forward.
It also demonstrates a growing willingness to hold powerful individuals accountable for their actions.
