Why Diddy Didn’t Mention Cassie’s Name In His Controversial Apology Video
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, Cassie Ventura. Getty Images(2)
Diddy apologized for assaulting his ex-partner Cassie in a video on Instagram, but he did not mention her by name. This upset many people, but there was a legal reason behind it.
Many criticized the Bad Boy Records founder, aged 54, for not directly addressing Cassie in his apology on Sunday, May 19. The apology came after a video from 2016 showing Diddy attacking Cassie was released.
CNN entertainment correspondent Elizabeth Wagmeister, who obtained the now-infamous attack video, addressed the controversy surrounding #Diddy's apology. She mentioned on Monday, May 20 that there has been a lot of discussion about Diddy not mentioning Cassie. According to multiple sources, Diddy and Cassie's settlement from November 2023 prohibits them from speaking about each other.
Wagmeister elaborated that a source revealed Diddy is actually not allowed to say Cassie's name due to the terms of their settlement.
"In a follow-up post on X, it was mentioned that Cassie probably wouldn't have pursued legal action against Diddy for apologizing to her in a video that violated their settlement agreement. Both parties have been communicating through their lawyers, which is why we haven't heard directly from Cassie."
Why Diddy Didn’t Mention Cassie’s Name In His Controversial Apology Video
Diddy's video, as reported by TMZ, underwent careful review by his attorneys before being posted to ensure it complied with the NDA from the settlement. A source mentioned that Diddy had the intention of mentioning Cassie's name, but was unable to do so.
In his apology video, Diddy admitted he was in a bad place and had hit rock bottom. He said, "I messed up" and "I take full blame for my actions." Diddy mentioned seeking professional help, attending therapy and rehab, and turning to God for guidance. He expressed deep regret and vowed to work on improving himself daily. Diddy clarified that he was not seeking forgiveness but wanted to sincerely apologize.
Diddy and Cassie reached a settlement in November 2023 after she filed a lawsuit accusing Diddy of raping her in 2018 and using her for sex trafficking.
Why Diddy Didn’t Mention Cassie’s Name In His Controversial Apology Video
Cassie expressed her decision to settle the matter amicably with some level of control. She thanked her family, fans, and lawyers for their unwavering support.
Diddy maintained his innocence, saying the settlement was “in no way an admission of wrongdoing.”
Editor's P/S:
It is deeply concerning that Diddy's apology for his assault on Cassie was hampered by a legal settlement that prevented him from directly addressing her. This illustrates the complex and often silencing nature of legal agreements in cases of abuse. Victims may be understandably hesitant to pursue legal action due to fear of retaliation or further trauma, and such settlements can perpetuate a culture of secrecy and shame.
Additionally, the fact that Diddy's settlement with Cassie prohibited them from speaking about each other raises questions about the power dynamics at play. It is essential that survivors of abuse have the freedom to speak out and seek support without fear of legal repercussions. This case highlights the need for legal reforms that prioritize the rights and well-being of victims, ensuring that they have access to justice and a voice in the aftermath of abuse.