Sean "Diddy" Combs, once a towering figure in the music industry, appeared noticeably thinner and grayer during his latest court hearing on Wednesday, according to reports from a journalist in attendance. The 55-year-old rapper and producer, currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, is facing federal charges for sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution.
"He appeared just astonishingly thinner, which you can expect [from him being] inside a federal detention center for a couple of months now," said Elizabeth Millner, a reporter for Law & Crime. She noted that Combs' physical appearance contrasted sharply with the vibrant image of him seen in a video playing hacky sack in Central Park just days before his arrest on September 16.
Millner also pointed out a change in Combs' hair color, describing it as "grayer." While cameras were not permitted inside the courtroom, the report highlights the stark impact of Combs' incarceration on his appearance and health.
Despite the visual changes, a source close to Combs told Page Six that the music mogul remains "fit, healthy, and fully focused on his defense." The insider added, "He has been very active, remains in good spirits, and, as always, he was happy to see his children." During the hearing, Combs reportedly smiled and waved as his sons, Christian and Justin Combs, entered the courtroom.
Combs, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, has been denied bail three times since his arrest. His detention at MDC has reportedly been a jarring transition for the former music mogul, who was initially placed on suicide watch following his incarceration. While his lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, assured reporters that Combs was "focused and very strong," he acknowledged that adjusting to prison food has been a particular challenge. "I think the food's probably the roughest part of it," Agnifilo said.
MDC, notorious for its harsh conditions, has been described as "hell on Earth" by former inmates. The facility has faced allegations of unsanitary conditions, understaffing, and inadequate medical care. A 2021 incident involving an inmate's death from injuries sustained in a fight further underscores the center's reputation for violence and neglect.
Combs' daily meals reportedly consist of basic fare such as cereal, fruit, and pastries for breakfast, followed by lunch options like hamburgers or baked fish, and dinner offerings including chicken fajitas and pasta. During holidays, the menu slightly improves; for Christmas, inmates are expected to receive baked Cornish hen, macaroni and cheese, and a holiday dessert.
The charges against Combs stem from a federal investigation into what prosecutors describe as "freak offs"-elaborate events where he allegedly coerced women into participating in sexual acts. The indictment outlines a years-long pattern of abuse, with accusations of manipulation and exploitation. If convicted, Combs could face life in prison.
Aside from the criminal case, Combs is also grappling with multiple civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault. These cases, along with his federal charges, have tarnished his once-glamorous public image and cast a long shadow over his legacy.
Combs' trial is scheduled to begin on May 5, 2025, leaving him to navigate the challenges of incarceration and an aggressive legal battle in the months ahead.
