Skip to main content

As Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal battle unfolds, the courtroom drama has expanded far beyond the hip-hop mogul himself. A growing number of high-profile celebrities are being pulled into the case — some named in testimony, others mentioned in court filings — as prosecutors work to unravel the extent of Combs’ alleged network. From musicians and models to industry executives, these celebrity connections paint a broader picture of the culture surrounding Combs’ empire. Here’s what a Hollywood publicist said about how celebrities are scrambling to escape Combs’ trial.

Celebrities are ‘running around like rats’ to escape Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ trial, according to a Hollywood publicist

As the federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs intensifies, a growing list of celebrities have been named. The trial mentioned Usher, Ne-Yo, Britney Spears, Michael B. Jordan, Kanye “Ye” West, Mike Myers, Michelle Williams, Drake, French Montana, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, and Pusha T, to name a few. Now, it seems celebrities have concerns that Combs’ trial might drag them into the conversation.

Ed Lozzi, a publicist, political consultant, and former White House Press Advance staffer, told RadarOnline that he sees the panic. Nobody wants any association with Combs or his “freak-off” sex parties.

“Celebrities here are running around like rats with the lights turned on,” Lozzi said. “A couple have called me with all kinds of excuses for why they were at these events or were photographed with Combs. The sleaze factor at these freak-offs was over the top, and it’s all going to be exposed at the trial.”

Another Hollywood publicist said celebrities don’t want any link to Combs, as that could mark the end of their career.

“Many Hollywood stars are shaking in their boots because they may be called in to testify,” the source alleged. “And they realize that what they say could reveal how they’re linked to Diddy — and bury them.”

Ray J recently set the record straight regarding whether he ever knew about ‘freak-off’ parties

Related

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Is ‘Aged,’ ‘Gray,’ and ‘Using His Readers’ in Trial, Reporter Says

Ray J and Sean “Diddy” Combs share a long-standing relationship. Ray J attended Diddy-hosted events through the years, often appearing alongside him in social media posts and behind-the-scenes industry gatherings. While the two never publicly announced any formal business partnerships, their frequent proximity suggested a close personal and professional rapport.

In May 2025, Ray J discussed Combs’ trial while on Piers Morgan Uncensored. Ray J has become one of the few celebrities to speak out about the case. He wants Combs’ freedom. He also noted that he never attended or heard of “freak-off” parties.

“Even the word ‘freak-offs,’ we’ve never used that term whenever we went to a Diddy party,” Ray J said. “A Diddy party was where most people couldn’t get in, and the top of the top, the A-listers, are out on the scene. … Whatever door they’re talking about — the ‘freaky door’ — I never got an invitation, never knew it existed.”

Justin Bieber recently broke his silence regarding Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

Justin Bieber and Sean “Diddy” Combs shared a high-profile relationship dating back to the early days of Bieber’s rise to fame. Diddy took an interest in the young pop star around 2009, often appearing in interviews and social media posts as a mentor figure. While their relationship appeared to cool over time, their early connection caught newfound attention following Combs’ arrest.

Bieber’s rep released a statement in May 2025 amid Comb’s trial.

“Although Justin is not among Sean Combs’ victims, there are individuals who were genuinely harmed by him,” the spokesperson said, according to People. “Shifting focus away from this reality detracts from the justice these victims rightfully deserve.”

How to get help: In the U.S., call the RAINN National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 to connect with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area. 

For more news and exclusive interviews, follow Showbiz Cheat Sheet’s Instagram.