Netflix Refuses to Back Down in Face of Diddy's Accusations of Theft Regarding 50 Cent-Promoted Docuseries

Netflix has publicly addressed accusations from Diddy's representatives claiming the streaming platform unlawfully used footage in a newly released docuseries. The series, "Sean Combs: The Reckoning", premiered on Tuesday, December 2, and was produced in collaboration with Diddy's longtime rival, 50 Cent. It chronicles the rapper's decline and mental struggles in the days leading up to his September 2024 arrest.

Diddy criticized the docuseries as a "shameful hit piece," accusing Netflix of misappropriating footage and partnering with someone who harbored animosity toward him. Nevertheless, Netflix and all involved parties have denied any wrongdoing.

Netflix Denies Theft and Vindictive Intentions

Following statements from Diddy's spokesperson, Juda Engelmayer, Netflix released a rebuttal emphasizing that the claims were false. According to the streaming service, the docuseries had no connection to any previous discussions between Diddy and Netflix, contradicting reports that CEO Ted Sarandos was aware of Diddy's plans for a personal documentary.

Netflix clarified that the footage depicting Combs leading up to his arrest was obtained legally. Reports also confirm that the platform's collaboration with 50 Cent was not driven by revenge, and the series is not intended as a punitive portrayal.

Content of the Docuseries

The program examines Diddy's life and career in detail, including allegations related to the 1996 murder of Tupac Shakur. It features interviews with former gang member Duane "Keffe D" Davis, who claimed Diddy offered him $1 million to carry out the murder. Kirk Burrowes, co-founder of Bad Boy Entertainment, also suggested Diddy was involved in Shakur's death. Additional segments address sexual assault and abuse accusations.

Diddy's Response and Legal Action

Diddy's team asserted that Netflix and 50 Cent used unauthorized footage from his personal archives, which he had been collecting since age 19 to produce his own documentary. Engelmayer described this as both unfair and illegal, criticizing Netflix for collaborating with 50 Cent given his personal vendetta against Diddy.

Director's Statement

Alexandria Stapleton, the docuseries director, refuted claims of illegal activity, confirming all footage was obtained with proper rights. She noted Diddy frequently filmed himself and highlighted repeated attempts to obtain his participation and commentary, which were ignored. 50 Cent participated as executive producer to address allegations of criminal behavior.

Cease-and-Desist Notice

Prior to the series release, Diddy's lawyers sent Netflix a cease-and-desist letter warning of potential legal action, citing the rapper's history of pursuing litigation against media companies. The notice emphasized that Diddy had not been given a chance to preview the docuseries, despite the use of material he intended for his own project.

The question remains whether Diddy will pursue a lawsuit against Netflix and 50 Cent for the alleged unauthorized use of his footage.

Author: Noah Whitman