Sean “Diddy” Combs and Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, two towering figures in the music industry, are embroiled in a civil lawsuit alleging they raped a 13-year-old girl at an afterparty for the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards. The lawsuit, amended on December 8, names both men and details harrowing accusations of assault and coercion.
The plaintiff, identified only as Jane Doe, claims she was approached outside Radio City Music Hall by a limousine driver who promised entry to the exclusive event. According to the complaint, the driver said she “fit what Diddy was looking for” and escorted her to the afterparty, where she was allegedly asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement.
At the party, Doe alleges she was given a drink she believes was drugged. The lawsuit details that Diddy approached her with a “crazed look” and chillingly said, “You are ready to party!” before allegedly assaulting her. The complaint further accuses Jay-Z of joining in the attack, stating he removed her clothes and raped her while Diddy and an unnamed female celebrity watched.
The plaintiff’s attorney, Tony Buzbee, has filed similar complaints against Combs, representing more than 100 accusers alleging misconduct. Jane Doe is seeking unspecified damages, citing the profound trauma she has endured.
Legal Denials and Public Statements
Both Combs and Jay-Z have vigorously denied the allegations. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Jay-Z called the claims “heinous in nature” and demanded a criminal investigation if they held merit. “Whomever would commit such a crime against a minor should be locked away,” he stated. “I mourn yet another loss of innocence.”
Jay-Z’s legal team, led by attorney Alex Spiro, has moved to dismiss the lawsuit and requested that the court reveal the plaintiff’s identity. “Mr. Carter deserves to know the identity of the person who is effectively accusing him — in sensationalized, publicity-hunting fashion — of criminal conduct, demanding massive financial compensation, and tarnishing a reputation earned over decades,” the filing states.
Meanwhile, Combs’ attorneys described the lawsuit as a “shameless publicity stunt” and dismissed the allegations as part of an extortion scheme. Combs, currently detained on separate federal charges, has denied any wrongdoing in over 30 lawsuits filed against him.
Parallel Legal Troubles
Combs has been in federal custody since September, facing charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution. Prosecutors allege he orchestrated “freak offs,” elaborate sex performances involving coercion and violence. His trial is scheduled for May 2025.
The recent lawsuit has placed renewed scrutiny on Combs and Jay-Z’s decades-long friendship, which has spanned collaborations and public camaraderie. The case raises uncomfortable questions about their shared history and whether mutual protection fostered an environment of impunity.
