50 Cent Discusses Obtaining Unreleased Footage for Diddy's Netflix Documentary

The Netflix documentary on Sean Combs, Sean Combs: The Reckoning, has sparked widespread attention following its release on December 2, 2025. The four-part series debuted in full on the streaming platform, nearly two years after Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson announced he was working on the project on December 7, 2023. Directed by Alexandria Stapleton, the series has generated strong reactions, both for its content and a cease-and-desist letter sent to Netflix over certain revealing clips.

Curiosity about how the footage was obtained prompted 50 Cent to address the matter publicly. During an appearance on Fox & Friends to discuss his new show, 50 Ways to Catch a Killer, Jackson shared insight into the secret recordings.

Viral Clips and Controversial Content

The footage in question, captured in September 2024, shows Combs talking about his legal troubles in what appeared to be a hotel room, as reported by NBC News. In one moment, Combs remarked, "We have to find somebody that'll work with us that has dealt in the dirtiest of dirty business. We're losing." The video was filmed just six days before federal authorities arrested him in New York City. Combs faced charges including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution. He was acquitted of racketeering and sex trafficking, but convicted on two lesser counts related to transportation for prostitution.

50 Cent on Acquiring the Footage

Before the documentarys premiere, NBC News Chloe Melas asked Jackson how he accessed the hotel room recordings. Jackson explained, "I figured most journalists would not disclose their sources." When asked if Combs was aware that the footage was included in the series, he admitted, "I would doubt he knows." Director Stapleton added that Combs and his legal team might learn about the footage for the first time when the series officially aired, responding with a cautious "perhaps."

Diddy and Netflix Respond

Combs publicly criticized the documentary, calling it a "shameful hit piece" and accusing 50 Cent of holding a personal grudge. He stated that Netflix used unauthorized footage and highlighted that he had been collecting material to tell his story on his own terms since he was 19. Combs described the release as both unfair and illegal.

Stapleton defended the series, insisting that the clips were obtained legally and that the production team had the necessary rights. She emphasized that Combs often films himself, and that they took extensive measures to keep the source confidential. Efforts to interview Combs legal team went unanswered.

The cease-and-desist notice did not interfere with the documentarys release, which remains available for streaming on Netflix.

Sources:

• 50 Cent Addresses Securing Unreleased Footage for Diddy Netflix Documentary

Author: Ava Mitchell
Ava Mitchell is a journalist covering culture, art, and literature. She is known for her creative approach and ability to produce in-depth features and interviews.