Diddy on Trial: As It Happened

What’s it about?

In this docuseries, experts unpack the biggest moments in the case of the criminal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs, a rapper accused of sex trafficking and prostitution, using weekly reenactments from court transcripts and interviews.

The facts

• Hosted by Sunny Hostin
• English language
• 3 episodes, 35 minutes each (on average)

Why did it get this rating?

This series was self-rated by Disney+. You can find out more about self-rating by streaming providers here.

Most of this series is constructed by reenactments in court using paid actors. Despite little actual footage being shown, the events described were said by the real victims and witnesses in court, therefore, the weight of their words may still be impactful for some viewers.

Content that may disturb

The case follows an alleged criminal enterprise ran by Combs, which engaged in illegal acts like kidnapping, arson, drugs, sex crimes, bribery, and obstruction.

Domestic violence

An actor portraying Cassie, a former partner of Combs’, describes how she was having sex with himwhen he hit her and gave her a black eye, before she left the room and made it to the hotel elevators. Here, we see real footage of Combs grabbing Cassie by the hood of her jumper and throwing her on the floor, before kicking her on the ground and dragging her.

Some of the things she described that he did to her include: smashing her in the head, knocking her over, dragging her, kicking her, stomping her head. These acts gave her bruises, swollen lips, red eyes, and other injuries.

She also describes how she was pressured into engaging in sex acts with people other than Combs while he watched.

Sexual violence

Sex trafficking and sexual violence are central themes to the show and are discussed regularly.

A woman (acting using the real victim’s word-by-word testimony) explains how Sean entered her living room and raped her on the floor. She explains how she cried and said no but he ignored her and continued, before finishing.

In one scene, a mother is asked about her daughter, who was allegedly sexually abused by Sean and threatened to have her sex tapes revealed.

Sexual themes

Various sexual acts are referenced and described, such as voyeurism and sexual intercourse, mostly in the context of sexual violence.

Offensive language

This show contains frequent use of offensive language, with words like “f**k” and “sh*t.” Other words are implied to be used but are bleeped out.

Helplines:

Themes including sexual and domestic violence could be upsetting for some viewers, especially for those who have gone through similar experiences. If you are struggling with what you have seen on-screen please reach out for help. If you or someone you know needs to talk:

• 1737
• Safe to talk
• Lifeline
• Youthline

Further information

• Why are ratings and content warnings important for me and my whānau?
• Brain development – how it works, why it matters