Netflix hits back at Diddy’s criticism of ‘shameful’ documentary

Netflix has defended its new four part documentary on Sean “Diddy” Combs after the imprisoned music mogul denounced the series as a shameful hit piece. The streaming platform, which released the documentary produced by rapper 50 Cent, insists the project is neither vindictive nor unlawful despite strong objections from Combs’ camp.

The series, titled Sean Combs: The Reckoning, revisits the events leading up to Combs’ downfall, featuring what Netflix calls explosive footage recorded in the days before his arrest. Among the material is a phone conversation between Combs and his lawyer. The former hip hop titan is currently serving a 50 month prison sentence after being convicted on prostitution related charges in July.

A spokesman for Combs condemned the documentary, accusing producers of relying on stolen footage and presenting a narrative designed to damage Combs’ reputation. He argued that the use of private recordings was fundamentally unfair and illegal, calling the documentary an attempt to exploit a man who cannot speak freely while behind bars.

Netflix strongly disputes this, stating that all material in the series was obtained legally and cleared for use. The platform stressed that the documentary aims to provide a full picture of a complex public figure rather than pursue personal vendettas. According to Netflix, the allegations of theft and manipulation are inaccurate and overlook the rigorous editorial process behind such productions.

The project has already stirred debate within the entertainment world, not least because of the involvement of 50 Cent, who has been openly critical of Combs in the past. Some observers say his role as a producer inevitably invites questions about motive, while others maintain that his industry experience gives him a unique perspective on Combs’ influence and controversies.

The documentary covers a turbulent period that culminated in Combs’ arrest, conviction and subsequent imprisonment. It also explores broader allegations and long running rumours that have circulated around his businesses and personal conduct. Netflix says its intention was to build a narrative grounded in verified information, featuring interviews with people who have worked closely with Combs.

For the rapper’s supporters, however, the timing of the release feels opportunistic. They argue that Combs’ legal appeals are ongoing and that sensationalised storytelling could undermine efforts to reassess his conviction. They also claim that his inability to respond publicly from prison puts him at a disadvantage.

Industry analysts note that this dispute reflects a wider tension between documentary filmmaking and celebrity image control. As streaming platforms seek gripping true life stories, questions about fairness, privacy and editorial judgement increasingly come to the fore.

For now Netflix is standing firm, reiterating that the series is not an act of retribution but an attempt to examine a cultural figure whose career shaped decades of music and business. With the documentary already attracting significant attention, debate around its motives and methods is likely to continue.