Diddy sex trafficking trial begins with celebrity name-drop during jury selection process
Jury selection has officially begun in Sean 'Diddy' Combs' high-profile federal sex trafficking trial, with over 150 potential jurors questioned at a Manhattan courthouse.
As part of the process, jurors were asked about their familiarity with a list of over 190 names, including celebrities like Kanye West, Michael B. Jordan, Kid Cudi, Mike Myers, and others—some of whom may be connected to the trial.
Among those reportedly tied to the case is Kid Cudi, whom prosecutors believe was the victim of a 2011 car bombing allegedly orchestrated by Combs. At the time, Cudi was reportedly dating Casandra 'Cassie' Ventura, the trial's star witness. Michael B. Jordan, who also dated Ventura briefly in 2015, is not expected to testify, according to sources.
Potential jurors were also asked about their personal experiences with sexual assault, law enforcement, and their opinions on media coverage. Many admitted to seeing the 2016 hotel video showing Combs allegedly assaulting Ventura—though CNN's version of the footage will not be used in court.
Combs is facing five felony charges: racketeering, two counts of sex trafficking, and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. If convicted, the 55-year-old mogul could face life in prison. The charges span alleged crimes from 2004 to 2024.
Concerns were raised over several jurors' affiliations, including one who works at HBO, which released The Fall of Diddy docuseries. Another was excused due to a connection with an upcoming memoir by Al B. Sure!, who accuses Combs of threatening behavior.
Opening statements in the trial are expected to begin May 12. Combs has denied all allegations, claiming that any sexual encounters were consensual.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Express Tribune
2 days ago
- Express Tribune
Diddy former assistant Brendan Paul testifies on FBI arrest and other allegations in ongoing trial
Sean 'Diddy' Combs' former assistant, Brendan Paul, took the witness stand on Friday in the ongoing federal trial against the music mogul. Paul, a 26-year-old former Syracuse University basketball player, worked for Combs for approximately 18 months beginning in late 2022. His testimony provided detailed insight into Combs' alleged lifestyle, including regular drug use and monthly sex parties known as 'Wild King Nights.' Paul was arrested on March 24, 2024, at a Miami airport during coordinated federal raids on Combs' properties in Miami and Los Angeles. Although Combs was released, Paul was taken into custody after authorities discovered 0.7 grams of cocaine in one of his bags. He told the court that the drugs belonged to Combs but said he initially didn't tell federal agents due to "loyalty." Paul was released the following day on a $2,500 bond, and the charges were later dropped. He has not spoken to Combs since. Paul testified that his responsibilities included setting up and cleaning hotel rooms used for Combs' monthly sex parties. These events, he said, required him to purchase supplies such as towels, lube, alcohol, sheets, and toiletries. He also reported once seeing white powder residue in a hotel room. Paul said he spent between $500 on drugs for Combs—such as cocaine, ketamine, ecstasy, and marijuana—on five to ten occasions, though he denied being a 'drug mule.' Paul's name has been mentioned in three pending civil lawsuits filed against Combs, including one by music producer Rodney 'Lil Rod' Jones, who accused Combs of coercion and alleged Paul helped procure guns and drugs. Paul rejected the criminal characterization and insisted he would 'absolutely not' work for a criminal. He described Combs as demanding, noting that staff were instructed to 'move like SEAL Team Six' and ensure Combs' satisfaction at all costs. The trial resumed Friday after a brief delay due to a juror's illness and the Juneteenth holiday. Federal prosecutors are expected to conclude their case on Monday, with the defense set to begin presenting witnesses Tuesday. Combs faces charges including sex trafficking, transportation for prostitution, and racketeering. He has pleaded not guilty and faces a potential life sentence if convicted.
Express Tribune
4 days ago
- Express Tribune
Ralph Fiennes has one key tip for HBO's next Voldemort
As excitement builds around HBO's upcoming Harry Potter TV series, original Voldemort actor Ralph Fiennes has weighed in with a bit of unconventional and hilarious advice for whoever ends up taking over the iconic role. Speaking to Entertainment Tonight while promoting 28 Years Later alongside co-star Jodie Comer, Fiennes was asked what guidance he'd offer to the next actor brave enough to portray the dark wizard. 'Make sure you can handle the long, flowing robes, and don't trip over them,' Fiennes said with a laugh. 'Practice your long, flowing robe walk.' Reflecting on the behind-the-scenes realities of playing the role from 2005 to 2011, Fiennes revealed a lesser-known costume issue he faced while filming the original Harry Potter film series. The tights, originally part of a one-piece costume, proved more trouble than they were worth. 'They had a gusset that kept getting lower and lower throughout the day, it became really uncomfortable,' he shared. Eventually, he requested a change: 'I then asked for individual tights, like a garter belt,' he said, adding with a grin, 'So I enjoyed teasing the stunt guys by lifting up my robes and showing them my garter belt.' HBO's reboot, which aims to closely follow J.K. Rowling's beloved books, is slated to arrive in late 2026 or early 2027, according to HBO and Max Content CEO Casey Bloys. While casting for the role of Voldemort remains under wraps, fans are already speculating about who might step into Fiennes' shoes.
Express Tribune
5 days ago
- Express Tribune
Mark Ruffalo criticises Trump, defends immigrants in fiery political statement
Actor and activist Mark Ruffalo has launched a scathing critique of U.S. President Donald Trump and wealthy elites, arguing that billionaires—not immigrants—pose the greater threat to American society. In a video shared to social media and in a statement posted on Instagram, Ruffalo said that immigrants "add to our economy by the billions" and are unfairly demonised, while billionaires are 'stealing you blind.' The Oscar nominee and Marvel actor accused the ultra-wealthy of manipulating power and fostering economic desperation, stating, 'It's time to take our country back from extreme wealth that has its hands all over the power of the nation.' Ruffalo, who has long been vocal on political and social issues, particularly immigration policy, participated in the recent No Kings protest opposing Trump-era deportation practices. He condemned ongoing ICE raids and criticised the mindset of Americans who blame immigrants for societal problems. 'You want to get rid of the people who are picking your food… but not question those who dull your minds with lies and disinformation,' Ruffalo wrote. He also criticised Trump directly, referring to him as a 'grifter' and accusing his family of profiting through dubious ventures, including cryptocurrency schemes. 'You are worried about the poorest of the poor ruining your life?' Ruffalo asked, 'while the billionaire up top is stealing you blind.' Ruffalo expanded his criticism to include tech billionaires, saying they were enriching themselves with taxpayer money while ignoring urgent social issues like famine, disease, and political persecution. Outside activism, Ruffalo continues to take on major roles in Hollywood. He stars in Bong Joon Ho's upcoming sci-fi film Mickey 17 and will lead the new HBO series Task, a police drama from Mare of Easttown creator Brad Ingelsby, set to premiere in September.
