Sean “Diddy” Combs, born Sean John Combs on November 4, 1969, in Harlem, New York, is a multifaceted American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and actor. He began his career as an intern at Uptown Records, where he played a pivotal role in launching the careers of artists like Mary J. Blige and Jodeci. In 1993, he founded Bad Boy Records, signing notable artists such as The Notorious B.I.G. and Mase.
Beyond music, Combs has established himself as a successful entrepreneur. He launched the Sean John clothing line, which earned him the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) award for Menswear Designer of the Year in 2004. Additionally, he has ventured into the beverage industry with Cîroc vodka and has been involved in various television and film projects.
In recent years, Combs has faced significant legal challenges. In September 2024, he was arrested and charged with racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, and transportation for purposes of prostitution. These charges allege that he engaged in a pattern of illegal activities over more than a decade, including recruiting and exploiting individuals for commercial sex acts against their will.
Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, awaiting trial scheduled for May 5, 2025. In addition to the criminal charges, he faces multiple civil lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct and abuse, with incidents dating back to the early 1990s.
Despite these controversies, Combs’s influence on the music industry and his entrepreneurial ventures have left a lasting impact on popular culture.
