Bad Rap: The Case Against Diddy - podcast cover

Bad Rap: The Case Against Diddy

ABC Newsabcaudio.com
For decades, Sean "Diddy" Combs was among the most influential entertainers and entrepreneurs in hip-hop. But Diddy’s star began to implode when a video came out showing the music mogul assaulting his then-girlfriend. There had long been whispers about Diddy's aggression. But critics say his influence and relevance kept the rumors quiet. Until now. A raft of new lawsuits detail shocking allegations of sexual abuse and manipulation orchestrated in so-called "freak offs" -- sex parties Diddy allegedly ordered, videotaped and controlled. Diddy now faces federal charges that include sex trafficking. He has denied all wrongdoing and said all encounters were consensual. A new podcast from 20/20 and ABC Audio traces how whispers of abuse came to light and led to Diddy’s downfall. ABC News legal contributor Brian Buckmire takes listeners inside the rise and fall of Diddy, the allegations and his defense in a six-part weekly narrative series launching March 25, and returning with twice weekly real-time updates once the trial slated for May gets underway.

Episodes

The Trial: Cassie Ventura Takes the Stand

All eyes were on Cassie Ventura as she testified in a packed Manhattan courtroom today. Analysis of her testimony from Brian Buckmire and others on"Burden of Proof: The Case Against Diddy” which streams weekdays at 5:30 PM Eastern on ABC News Live. Find it on Disney+, Hulu, or on most of your favorite streaming apps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 13, 202529 min

The Trial: Abuse or Coercion?

The newly seated jury heard opening statements with dueling explanations of events: The government said the evidence will show that the sexual conduct in this case was coercive and criminal. The defense conceded Combs “has a temper” and “got violent” when they say he drank or used drugs, but said domestic violence is not part of the charges. Early prosecution witnesses included a former hotel security guard who testified about Combs’s violence toward Cassie in a 2016 incident and a male escort. ...

May 13, 202520 minSeason 2Ep. 3

The Trial: A "Good Juror"

Brian Buckmire discusses jury selection in the Sean Combs trial with jury consultant Eric Rudich. They explore the strategies, investigations, and profiles sought by both defense and prosecution. The episode also covers the role of jury consultants throughout the trial process and unusual findings during juror background checks.

May 09, 202526 minSeason 2Ep. 2

The Trial: A Jury of One’s Peers

The citizens of New York who may serve on the jury in Sean Combs’ federal trial begin to answer questions. What it takes to assemble a jury in a high-profile case like this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 06, 202519 minSeason 2Ep. 1

The Trial: Countdown

As the podcast shifts into trial coverage mode, host and ABC News legal contributor Brian Buckmire analyzes wins for both the prosecution and the defense in terms of what evidence the jury may see. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 02, 202517 min

USA v. Sean Combs

Sean Combs now awaits trial in Brooklyn's infamous Metropolitan Detention Center. In May, his highly publicized case is scheduled to go to trial. What do we know about the charges Diddy faces, the case prosecutors plan to present, and how his legal team might try to get him acquitted? Host and attorney Brian Buckmire breaks down the legal issues of Diddy's upcoming trial with Aaron Katersky, Sean Combs now awaits trial in Brooklyn's infamous Metropolitan Detention Center. In May, his highly publ...

Apr 29, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 6

Downfall

As the wave of civil lawsuits against Diddy continues to grow, in March of 2024, federal agents raid two of his properties in connection to a human trafficking investigation. Just a couple months later, an old video of Diddy beating, kicking and dragging his then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura in the hallway of a hotel surfaces, with devastating consequences. He publicly apologizes for his behavior and says he went to therapy. By September 2024, he’s arrested and indicted on federal charges of racket...

Apr 22, 202552 minSeason 1Ep. 5

Before and After

Soon after Cassie and Diddy end their relationship, Diddy rebrands himself again, as Sean “Love” Combs. He's on his way to becoming hip hop’s third billionaire, wins lifetime achievement awards and gets the key to New York City. But in 2023, Cassie files a 35-page lawsuit against him, alleging he physically and sexually abused her. Her suit is settled quickly and quietly, but it's just the beginning of Diddy's legal issues. In the weeks and months following Cassie's suit, he's hit with dozens mo...

Apr 15, 202537 minSeason 1Ep. 4

Me & U

Diddy signs a young singer with a hit single who’s on the fast track to fame. Cassie Ventura reportedly agrees to a 10 album deal. They become romantically involved and Cassie’s career flatlines, leaving fans wondering why she only released one studio album. We chart their decade-long relationship -- from the glamorous red carpet appearances to allegations of hidden abuse. A warning that this episode includes discussion of sexual violence and abuse. If you or someone you know is a victim of dome...

Apr 08, 202555 minSeason 1Ep. 3

Invincible

We chart Diddy’s rise from musician to mogul, from the center of hip-hop to the center of American culture. But that rise wasn’t always a smooth ascent. Along the way, he had moments of alleged violence and brushes with the law. Were these lapses in judgment or serious red flags that signaled a darker side to his success? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 01, 202556 minSeason 1Ep. 2

Party's Over

This episode delves into the rise and fall of Sean 'Diddy' Combs, exploring his lavish parties, the allegations of abuse and sex trafficking against him, and his current confinement in the Metropolitan Detention Center. It examines how Diddy's image transformed from a mogul to an inmate, the criminal charges he faces, and the conditions inside the jail. Featuring insights from legal experts and those familiar with the corrections system, this episode sets the stage for a deeper investigation into the case against Diddy.

Mar 25, 202540 minSeason 1Ep. 1

Introducing 'Bad Rap: The Case Against Diddy'

A new podcast from 20/20 and ABC Audio traces how whispers of abuse came to light and led to Diddy’s downfall. ABC News legal contributor Brian Buckmire takes listeners inside the rise and fall of Diddy, the allegations and his defense in a six-part weekly narrative series launching March 25, and returning with twice weekly real-time updates once the trial slated for May gets underway. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 11, 20253 min
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android
Open in Metacast