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The music mogul continues to fight for his freedom from behind bars. The Harlem-born music mogul faces more than four years behind bars, though his legal team isn't going down without a fight (Image Courtesy: Kathy Willens, AP) Sean “Diddy” Combs’ attorneys filed a notice to the Federal District of New York in plans to appeal the mogul’s conviction and 50-month sentence. Combs was convicted on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, though he was acquitted on two other charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. Judge Arun Subramanian issued a $500K fine and five years of probation. The Harlem-born musician initially asked for a 14-month sentence with a release set for immediately after the trial — which would’ve been due to his time in jail awaiting trial. The prosecution, accusing him of using his status within the music industry to operate the alleged sex trafficking ring, pushed for an 11-year sentence. It’s unclear what the appeal is based on, but Combs’ lawyers previously argued that the conviction shouldn’t stand because the statute of transportation for prostitution does not apply. Alexandra Shapiro, Combs’ lawyer, was the one to file the appeal on Monday. Rumors of the White House possibly commuting Combs’ sentence emerged on Monday (Oct. 20) when TMZ reported alleged confirmation from a “high-ranking White House official.” The alleged official claimed that the Revolt co-founder could be out as early as the end of last week. RELATED STORIES In a statement to USA TODAY , on Tuesday (Oct. 21), a White House spokesperson said there’s no truth to TMZ’s story.  “The president, not anonymous sources, is the final decider on pardons and commutations,” the official added. After the two-month trial, Combs found himself sentenced to four years and two months behind bars. He will receive credit for the year he already served at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.

The 32nd rendition of CUFF kicks off five days of films and afterparties with a slow-paced haunted house experimental film with deadpan comedy. The Chicago Underground Film Festival comes back for its 32nd year, kicking off with the experimental horror "Room Temperature." The art of festival flyer comes from the likes of two artists, Alex Scott and Isabel Overby. As the winds of fall slowly find their footing in Chicago, lovers of independent film gather at the Gene Siskel Film Center for the first night of this year’s Chicago Underground Film Festival.  Theater 1 is packed to the rim as Bryan Wendor gives an introduction to “Room Temperature,” the opening film of this year’s festival, as well as a speech on the festival itself. Vendor’s speech celebrates CUFF’s 32 years and highlights the team and sponsors that helped make it happen.  Finishing his speech, the lights finally go out and the opening film finally plays — following a couple of minutes of showing all of the sponsors. “Room Temperature” serves as the brainchild of Zac Farley and Dennis Cooper. The film follows a school janitor who stumbles upon a haunted house hosted by a family. Due to this run-in, the janitor, played by Chris Olsen, finds himself part of the family-run theatrical haunted house. It becomes clear that the family follows along with the father’s obsessive fantasy and storytelling. The obsession gets to the point where the father kills his son’s friend, a French kid named “Extra,” in an attempt to add to the haunted house’s story.  The film’s slow-pace comes through in a couple of aspects, namely its deadpan comedy. In the second scene of the film, we see the janitor cleaning the school bathroom and a woman, presumably a teacher or administrative worker at the school, walks in and asks: “Do you think the kids look up to you?” He takes a moment before answering, noting that the kids don’t either look up or down to him. Rather, they look at him sideways at a slightly downward angle. His slow, deadpan answer elicited laughter from the crowd and set the tone for the rest of the film. The slow-pace of the film comes through in the camera setup as it’s similar to that of a sitcom. The camera would stay in one place and it typically didn’t move throughout the scene. If there needed to be movement in the scene, there would be a cut instead of moving the camera itself.  Though, there were times where the camera itself moved. When the janitor first stumbled upon the house, you saw him walk up to the house. The camera then slowly panned to another woman walking up to the house. She ultimately walked away, and the camera continued to pan back to the house with the janitor standing at the edge of the property. The process of panning the camera took up to a minute or two, and one could say it gave another meaning to “deadpan.” There were a few moments where the camera appeared to be flying, almost as if it were a drone camera. This came after the death of “Extra” and it was used to float through the walls of the house and tents that the family slept in outside the home. The camerawork makes one feel like a ghost, one that’s also part of the haunted house. “Room Temperature” serves as a slow-paced twist on the horror genre as it tackles the complicated dynamic of family while presenting comedy in unexpected moments.  Following the film’s screening, the audience gives a rightful applause and the filmmaking duo behind the film take to the stage for a Q&A session. Dennis Cooper and Zac Farley did not come from the film arena, as Cooper serves as an underground novelist, known for his book “The Sluts,”  and Farley is a visual artist who studied fine arts at California Institute of the Arts and Northwestern University. The duo previously worked together on two films, “Permanent Green Light” and “Like Cattle Towards Glow.” During the Q&A session, Cooper notes that he took years to learn how to become a novelist, taking time to hone his craft before releasing any books. Tony O’Neill, an author and journalist,  described Cooper  as “a master of transgressive literature featuring all manner of minutely-observed depravity,” in a 2007 article for The Guardian.  A Salon article, published at the turn of the millennium , described Cooper as a “dangerous writer, both for the pedestrian reader unable to get beyond surface, and for those who like their homosexual literary aesthetics cozily free of anything resembling depth or complexity.” Both articles quoted William Borroughs, another author, who once said: “Dennis Cooper, God help him, is a born writer.” Zac Farley, currently living in France, later answered a question about the film’s frame rate. “Room Temperature” was filmed at 25 frames per second, which is different from the 24 frames per second norm. He notes that 25 fps is how many films in France are filmed, so it was a second nature type of decision rather than a conscious one.  As the Q&A session draws to the end, film enthusiasts and filmmakers file out of the theater — some gathering in the Gene Siskel Film Center lobby while others gather directly outside on State Street.  Eventually, folks find themselves to Broken Shaker on Ohio Street in the River North neighborhood. Socializing over free sponsored cans of Heineken took over the night as people wind down for the night.  The festival continues with more screenings throughout the weekend, notably “Tripolar The Movie” and “The Secret Lives of Bill Bartell.” Day Two starts with an art installation at Connect Gallery,  dubbed “Palace of Machinery.”  The installation serves as a multi-screen reanimation of 20th-century films. Two artists, Jenny Boles and Stephan Moore, will have their work featured in the installation.

The rapper found himself behind bars for the weekend following an early-morning encounter with police. Lil Nas X hit mainstream success with his 2019 hit, "Old Town Road," later culminating in two GRAMMY awards. “Old Town Road” rapper Lil Nas X, real name Montero Lamar Hall, was arrested on Thursday (Aug. 21) morning, according to Los Angele Sheriff’s Department inmate records obtained by USA Today . Los Angeles Police Department Officer Drake Madison told USA Today that officers responded to a call about “a nude man walking the street.” When the officers arrived at the scene, Hall allegedly charged at officers — leading to his subsequent arrest for Battery on a Police Officer. Madison noted that the rapper was also taken to the hospital for a possible overdose.  Hall’s actions will keep him behind bars until at least Monday (Aug. 25) due to other people being in front of him, TMZ reports . The rapper won’t be given a citation and released due to it being a violent offense. He currently stays in a jail in Van Nuys, according to police records viewed by Complex . Footage has since surfaced of Hall walking around Los Angeles in only his underwear and a pair of cowboy boots. In the clip, he was singing and telling the cameraperson to go to a party. He would later place a traffic cone on his head. Hall and his team has yet to speak publicly about the incident.

Kelley claims she was sexually abused by her stepfather at the time and Judd covered up the incident. The famous country singer is facing heavy allegations from her daughter, who has lengthy history of legal issues. Wynonna Judd’s daughter, Grace Kelley, claimed she was sexually abused by her former stepfather, and the country singer covered up the abuse. Kelley, currently 29-years-old, discusses the abuse during her interview with the Daily Progress. She claimed that D.R. Roach molested her when she was only 10-years-old, who was married to Judd from 2003 until 2007. Roach, Judd’s former bodyguard and ex-husband, was arrested in March 2007 and later charged with three counts of aggravated sexual battery on a child under the age of 13. Judd divorced him following his arrest and conviction, though the victim was never identified, Page Six reports . Kelley following her baptism at the Ground Zero Church of the Nazarene (Photo Courtesy: Grace Kelley) “When he was arrested and it came out in the news, that’s when she divorced him,” Kelley told the Daily Progress.  “So, is my mom rich? Yeah, she’s so rich that she was able to sweep me under the rug and abuse me and then cover it all up,” she claimed to the publication. “I don’t want to talk bad about my mom, but we’ll just say she’s a good performer. She was never a mother.” Kelly told the publication how she’s now sober after a history of drug addiction, and she also found religion while currently living in Charlottesville. Reps for Judd didn’t return Page Six’s request for comment. Kelley, daughter of Judd and her first husband Arch Kelley III, has had her fair run-ins with the legal system throughout the years. In 2018, she was sentenced to eight years in prison for violating her probation. She was released the next year, though she found herself back behind bars in 2021 for violating her probation again. Her latest arrest came in August 2024 for fleeing an officer, driving with a suspended/revoked license and using motorcycle equipment improperly, Page Six reported at the time . During a December 2010 interview with Oprah, Judd spoke out about Roach’s arrest. She found out about the arrest while at the airport, and kicked him out of their shared home “within the hour.”  She said she knew the victim, but she didn’t speak on the situation as it was the child’s story to tell whenever they were ready. Kelley walks the halls of the Ground Zero Church of Nazarene in Charlottesville (Photo Courtesy: Cal Tobias, The Daily Progress). Kelley currently lives in Charlottesville, and ultimately gave her life to God. Her candid interview with The Daily Progress not only details the sexual abuse, but how she turned her life around. She now attends the Ground Zero Church of the Nazarene.

The seasoned actors will step on the Broadway stage for the first time in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Don Cheadle returns to his theater roots as Ayo Edebiri goes beyond the world of comedy and writing. Tony Award winner Don Cheadle and SAG Award winner Ayo Edebiri will make their respective Broadway debuts in the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Proof . The revival will be directed by Thomas Kail, a fellow Tony winner, and co-produced by Mike Bosner and Kail. Previews will begin March 31 of next year with opening night set for April 16.  Written by David Auburn, Proof follows a woman named Catherine living with her father — a former world-renowned mathematician. Catherine takes care of her father during a period of mental decline, and she begins to realize how much she shares in common with her father beyond the love for numbers.  One of the former students of Catherine’s father, Hal, spends his days combing through her father’s journals in hopes of finding something of value. In doing so, Hal will question if his best days are behind him. Catherine’s sister, Claire, only wants the best for her, though her motives may not be totally unselfish.  David Auburb's "Proof" was originally released in 2000, later adapted into a movie in 2005. Edebiri recently won several awards for her role as Sydney on FX’s The Bear , and is currently nominated for her work on its third season. She expresses gratitude for the opportunity to bring the play back to life, reports Variety . “It’s hard to find the right words when talking about a text as rich and witty and full as David’s - what I can say is how deeply grateful I am for this incredible opportunity,” Edebiri told the publication. “I can’t believe my good fortune that I not only get to go to Broadway with this play, but have the opportunity to work alongside Don Cheadle, Tommy Kail, and such an amazing team around us.” Cheadle, known for his roles in Hotel Rwanda and Marvel’s Avengers franchises, found a connection to the source material in relation to his experiences as a father. “I couldn’t be happier for the opportunity to return to the stage in this remarkable play with this level of talent assembled to pull it off,” Cheadle told Variety. “As a father of two, both around the same age as Ayo, I’m excited (if not a little nervous) to dig into all the father/daughter messiness, not to mention the mental health challenges the family faces.” The creative team behind Proof  will include Academy Award and Emmy-winning composer Kris Bowers for original music, Teresa L. Williams for scenic design, Tony winner Dede Ayite for costume design and Amanda Zieve for lighting design. Proof  originally premiered Off-Broadway in 2000, later transferring to Broadway in October of that year. In 2001, it won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and three Tony Awards, including Best Play. It was later adapted into a 2005 film by Auburn, starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Jake Gyllenhaal. Edebiri has several upcoming projects lined up, including Luca Guadagnino’s film After the Hunt , which will premiere at the Venice Film Festival. Prior to her breakout role in The Bear , she began as a standup comedian — she performed a set on Comedy Central’s Up Next . She also worked behind the scenes as a writer for The Rundown with Robin Thede  and NBC’s Sunnyside . Edebiri would join the writing staff of Big Mouth  for the show’s fourth season. Edebiri worked on Dickinson , an Apple TV+ show about Emily Dickinson’s early days, as a writer and later as a supporting character.  During her time on Dickinson , she met Christopher Storer  who directed two of her episodes. Storer would later develop The Bear , considering Edebiri for the role of Sydney. Cheadle’s credits span decades, starting with his time at the California Institute of the Arts. During his time at CalArts, he acted in several plays including Athol Fugard’s “Master Harold” …and the Boys . He first received widespread notice for his role as Mouse Alexander in 1995’s Devil in a Blue Dress .  He received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in 2005 for his portrayal of Paul Ruseabagina in Hotel Rwanda . He also starred and produced Crash , which won the 2006 Academy Award for Best Picture.  The rest of the cast, creative team members and ticketing details for “Proof” will be announced in the near future.

The RnB singer says she almost died in an accident, though the specific details as to how she got there are unclear. The RnB singer is currently taking time to herself following a near death experience over the weekend. Singer, actress and reality TV personality Tamar Braxton almost died during the weekend, due to an accident she cannot fully remember. She revealed in an Instagram Story post that she woke up in a pool of blood with a fractured nose and missing teeth. She also notes that she lost some mobility, and is feeling weak. “I struggled to write this but everyone keeps calling me and honestly, I can’t really talk anymore I’m so weak,” the post read. “I almost died Sunday. I was found in a pool of blood from my friend with a face injury.” Tamar Braxton posted on her Instagram Story about the situation, noting that she doesn't have the strength to answer everyone who is calling (Photo Courtesy: Tamar Braxton/Instagram) “As my health is on the mend my mental journey begins… pray for me for real,” Braxton continued. “I don’t even know what happened to me.” In June 2021, she spoke with PEOPLE Magazine about her mental health struggles and a 2020 suicide attempt. She explained how that time of her life was dark and heavy, and she wasn’t sure she would “come out on the other side.” At the time of her suicide attempt, she was home with her son and her then-boyfriend, who found her unresponsive.

The Canada-born rapper’s latest attempt for an appeal of his conviction relating to the shooting of Megan Thee Stallion. Tory Lanez's legal team will take to the courtroom again on August 28 to do an oral argument regarding one of his petitions. Tory Lanez’s appeals to submit new evidence regarding his 2022 conviction has been denied by a California appellate court. A three-judge panel, consisting of Judges Lee Smalley Edmon, Anne H. Egerton and Rashida A. Adams, denied two petitions that sought a new sentencing based on new evidence. According to Legal Affairs and Trials with Meghann Cuniff , the three-judge panel has yet to decide on the main appeal. The decision is scheduled for oral argument on Monday (Aug. 18). In the main appeal, Lanez, real name Daystar Peterson, argues that Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge David V. Herriford shouldn’t have allowed the prosecution to use one of his comments on Instagram as evidence, Meghann Cuniff reports. The comment in question was “that’s not true,” which was in response to another comment that said Harris was the shooter. Another argument in the appeal stems from a recorded interview Kelsey Harris, Megan Thee Stallion’s former friend, gave before the trial. Harris described the shooting and identified Peterson as the shooter, though Peterson’s attorney implied that prosecutors pressured Harris to implicate Peterson. Tory Lanez was moved from his original prison due to a fellow inmate stabbing him (Getty Images) The first petition revolved around a new statement from Peterson’s driver, Jauquan Smith, who drove Peterson, Megan Thee Stallion, real name Megan Pete, and Harris from Kylie Jenner’s Hollywood Hills home. According to the recent appellate order, Smith’s statements were inadmissible as they didn’t comply with the California Code of Civil Procedure.  Smith appeared at the courthouse during the 2022 trial, wanting to testify as a defense witness. The prosecution wanted more time to prepare for the unexpected testimony, though Peterson’s lawyer, George Mgdesyan, didn’t summon Smith due to the upcoming holidays. Mgdesyan feared that delaying the trial any further would lead to a mistrial. Deputy Attorney General Michael C. Keller cited statements Mgdesyan made during trial sidebars and chambers meetings. Mgdesyan “acknowledged that he had spoken with Smith regarding his observations and determined that Smith would not be a helpful witness.” The appellate court order also discusses the DNA found on the 9mm semiautomatic handgun used in the shooting.  Investigators found gunshot residue on both Peterson and Harris, though they never took DNA samples from Harris. Prosecutors argued that it didn’t matter as criminalist Randy Zepeda of the Los Angeles Police Department determined that a male contributed to 90 percent of the DNA found on the gun. Peterson’s habeas petition argued that the jury should have heard it was “marginally more likely a random member of the Black community contributed to [the mixture of DNA found on the gun] than Petitioner contributed thereto.”  The appellate court order notes that Peterson is saying that “his own DNA expert failed to provide industry-accepted methodology.” Plus, he wasn’t able to provide any evidence that would support his stance. Crystal Morgan, the lead attorney of Peterson’s appeal, originally filed the second habeas petition in October of last year. In this petition, Morgan alleged she couldn’t test the firearm used in the shooting for DNA because LAPD no longer had it.  On Nov. 19, the Attorney General’s Office filed a declaration from an LAPD senior property manager, essentially stating that Morgan’s claims were untrue. The firearm, magazine “and all the bullet casings and the bullet fragments that were booked … are still in the Los Angeles Police Department’s custody,” according to the LAPD senior property manager. Morgan later amended her original petition to include a statement from Bradley James, Harris’ former bodyguard. James served as Harris’ bodyguard during the trial, and he allegedly heard her say things that contradicted her trial testimony. According to James, Harris said she shot the gun in the air three times. Peterson then grabbed her arm and pushed it down, leading to the gun firing twice more. His statement was dated for Aug. 28, 2024, leading to confusion as to why it wasn’t submitted until July 2025. The appellate court expressed their confusion, stating that Peterson “offers no explanation for why this document executed 11 months ago wasn’t submitted until July 30, 2025, on the eve of the oral argument, or why it was not raised in his successive writ petition filed October 23, 2024.” The order does allow for one of Peterson’s requests: his motion seeking California statistics regarding the number of people charged with first-degree assault who did or did not receive a gun-related sentencing enhancement. Peterson is also seeking information about charges, conviction rates, and lengths of sentences for celebrities of all races. According to the motion, he’s entitled to the information under California’s 2020 Racial Justice Act. Peterson has been in custody since his Dec. 23, 2022 conviction, currently staying in California’s Colony Prison. The 33-year-old rapper was moved to the facility after a fellow inmate stabbed him 14 times during his time at California Correctional Institution. Peterson’s lungs collapsed as a result of the stabbing. Times Entertainment on YouTube posted CCTV footage of an inmate stabbing Tory Lanez 14 times. For the oral arguments on Monday, Crystal Morgan will spearhead the hearing on Peterson’s behalf. The 2nd District Court of Appeals will stream the hearing o n its website , plus Meghann Cuniff will stream the hearing on her YouTube  as well. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. PST.

The reality television couple are in hot water as their kids may be involved in the murder of an Atlanta rapper. Kirk and Rasheeda Frost have been part of "Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta" since its inaugural season. Their kids were once featured throughout the series, namely during the tenth season. Ky Lasheed Frost, son of Kirk and Rasheeda Frost, is the prime suspect in the death of Atlanta rapper T-Hood, real name Tevin Hood. According to the Gwinnett County Police Department , the initial investigation revealed a domestic disturbance involving a woman at the home. The woman in question may have been Kelsie Frost, the daughter of Kirk and Rasheeda as well as Ky’s sister. Fox 5 Atlanta reports that Ky arrived at the residence, initially trying to stay separate from the situation. Following the shooting, police found Hood in his home and had him transported to the hospital. He later succumbed to his injuries while at the hospital.  The alleged shooter and a witness had stayed to speak with the police at the scene while someone was detained and interviewed by police. Charges have not been officially announced. Social media users have speculated Kelsie and Ky’s involvement in the shooting, with Kelsie breaking her silence  via a statement on Instagram. “I can’t sit back and let the narrative being created go on. The love of my life is GONE. The man I lay with and cuddle every night…is no longer here,” the post read. “So as I want to ask for respect and privacy, I won’t because I will always defend my baby. I don’t condone s–t in any way, shape, form or fashion. I am sick to my stomach. I don’t wish this on anyone.” Hood's family released a tape of Kelsie allegedly admitting that her brother had something to do with Hood's death. The Neighborhood Talk recently posted the alleged recording, though people were concerned about the legal ramifications. Georgia is a two-party state, meaning that all parties must consent to being recorded. According to The Neighborhood Talk, Hood's family claims Kelsie consented to being recorded. The story is developing.

As the trial regarding allegations of racketeering, trafficking and sexual assault comes to an end, the media and music mogul faces several civil lawsuits stemming from almost three decades of alleged abuse. Sean "Diddy" Combs faced five charges that could've had him behind bars for life, but the music mogul managed to get off easy with a partial verdict. Sean “Diddy” Combs faced five charges in a ten-week trial regarding racketeering and sex trafficking, only to be found guilty of two charges regarding the transportation to engage in prostitution. These charges relate to two of his former girlfriends, Cassie Ventura and another who testified as “Jane.” The music mogul was not found guilty of the racketeering conspiracy and two sex trafficking counts. These three counts each carried a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison, according to ABC News . Combs' reaction to his partial verdict (Photo Courtesy: Meghann Cunnif's "Legal Affairs and Trials with Meghann Cunnif") As news of the verdict began to roll in, Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, called for the Harlem-born music executive to be released on July 2, though the prosecution strongly argued against the notion. They argued Combs is a flight risk as well as a danger to his victims, especially those who testified during the trial. A letter from Ventura’s lawyers expressed these very concerns, noting the danger Combs poses to both the victims and the community. Judge Arun Subramanina, who has been overseeing the trial, denied bail for Combs. The denial will force Combs to stay in jail until sentencing, which is scheduled for October 3, at 10 in the morning. ABC News reports that prosecutors argued for Combs to be sentenced to 51 to 63 months in jail, which totals to around four to five years. Combs’ attorneys argued for a sentence of 21 to 27 months, around two years instead.  The music mogul has already served nine months while awaiting trial, which will subtract from his sentence. “Sean Combs, going to trial where he was facing life, and being able to walk out with something under 10 years, well under 10 years possibly, that is a victory,” ABC News’ legal contributor Brian Buckmire said.  Combs’ conviction on the lesser charges presents a paradoxical predicament, one noted  by CNN’s Senior Legal Analyst Elli Honig .  “...here we have Sean Combs, who has just been convicted of two federal felonies … And for all practical purposes, he has won. He has defeated the Southern District of New York,” Honig said. Ventura’s lawyer, Dough Wigdor, told reporters outside of the courtroom  that they wanted Combs convicted of racketeering. Though, they’re pleased that the rapper-turned-executive will be “held responsible for something, which is something that hasn’t happened in his lifetime.” Wigdor, and his team, are hopeful that Combs will receive a “substantial sentence” for his crimes.  Combs’ lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, also spoke with the press outside of the courtroom. He was later joined by his co-council, Teny  Geragos. “...one thing stands between all of us and a prison, and that is a jury of 12 citizens, and we had a wonderful jury. They listened to every word, and they got the situation right, or certainly right enough,” Agnifilo said. Geragos followed up with a statement of his own, noting how the media got it all wrong, regarding the allegations against Combs, for the past two years. He calls for everyone, especially the media, to analyze the criminal complaints and indictments. “I ask that for every time you guys see a civil lawsuit, criminal complaints or criminal indictments, you actually take a look and analyze these and see whether or not these are actually going to stand up in a court of law, because today they did not.” He goes on to state that Combs did not sexually assault or traffick anyone, citing the jury’s verdict. The Prosecution’s Case Fell Through, Leaving the Jury Hung Up on Semantics The prosecution accused the music mogul of leading a criminal enterprise, allegedly using threats, violence and bribery to force Ventura and “Jane” to engage in sex acts with male escorts. Combs’ lawyers argued that the sex acts were consensual, noting that the accusers were trying to get money from the music mogul. The partial acquittal showcases the prosecution’s inability to prove racketeering conspiracy as well as sex trafficking. According to CNN, the jury appeared to be unconvinced of the existence of an enterprise, or that he and others committed the crimes that would support a conviction. With Combs, prosecutors argued that he and members of his inner circle engaged in various crimes - including arson, kidnapping and forced labor. For a conviction, the jury had to believe that Combs and at least one other person committed two of these crimes within a ten-year window. Interestingly enough, as CNN points out, Combs was charged by himself. The jury didn’t hear any direct testimony from anyone who would’ve been part of the alleged enterprise. There proved to be difficulty amongst the jury as they were deadlocked on the racketeering conspiracy charge. The verdict form alleged eight predicate acts supporting the charge: kidnapping, arson, bribery, witness tampering, forced labor, sex trafficking, drug distribution and transportation for purposes of prostitution. The jury had to find at least two of these acts to be proven, and they could be the same thing. According to Legal Affairs and Trial with Meghann Cuniff , jurors had sent a note to the judge, asking: “If a recipient wants, requests, or asks for controlled substances, and an individual hands over controlled substances to the requester, has the individual who hands over the controlled substances distributed?” Regarding the two sex trafficking charges, both Ventura and “Jane” suggested financial or professional control. Ventura signed to Combs’ record label at 19-years-old, prosecutors arguing the music juggernaut controlled her career.  “Jane” testified that she entered a “love contract” with Combs, in which he agreed to pay her $10,000 rent. Though, he would allegedly threaten to cut her off financially if she refused to participate in “hotel nights” - also known as “Freak Offs.” These “Freak Offs” were essentially sex marathons that could sometimes go on for days in swanky and luxurious hotels. In her 2024 bombshell lawsuit against Combs, Ventura said he directed her to pour oil on herself and as well as to where to touch the prostitutes while he filmed and masturbated. According to the indictment, the “Freak Offs” were “elaborate and produced sex performances,” involving drug use and coerced sex. Participants were often left so exhausted that they were given fluids to recover.  Combs Still Faces Several Civil Lawsuits Following His Semi-Acquittal on Criminal Charges As the criminal case is coming to a close, Combs still faces dozens of civil lawsuits from various people, including former Danity Kane member Dawn Richard. The Louisiana-born singer filed a lawsuit against Combs in September 2024 , alleging he sexually assaulted her as well as deprived her of food and sleep. Plus, according to her lawsuit, Combs refused to adequately pay her. Dawn Richards testifies against her former boss during the 10-week trial, explaining various allegations (Photo Courtesy: Elizabeth Williams via AP) Richard’s affiliation with Combs came when she auditioned and ultimately became a part of season three of MTV’s Making The Band . During the audition process, Combs would allegedly call female contestants derogatory names, including “fat” and “b-ch.” Throughout the production of the show, and the following years, Richards and her Danity Kane bandmates were allegedly forced to rehearse for two days without food or rest. According to Richard’s suit, she lost weight and got rashes from wearing a microphone pack during filming. She was later diagnosed with anemia and arthralgia, the latter being joint stiffness caused by overuse, sprains and infections.  Combs’ attorney Erica Wolff responded to the lawsuit, noting the music mogul’s “shocked and disappointed” reaction. “Mr. Combs is shocked and disappointed by this lawsuit. In an attempt to rewrite history, Dawn Richard has now manufactured a series of false claims all in the hopes of trying to get a pay day - conveniently timed to coincide with her album release and press tour,” Wolff said in the statement.  Richard also alleged that Combs would come into her dressing room unannounced, and he would sometimes touch her inappropriately while working with a stylist to demonstrate where her clothing should fall. Combs regularly asked her to strip to her underwear, and often conducted his meetings in his underwear.  Not only did Richard speak on her personal experience, she noted how she witnessed Combs abuse Ventura on various occasions. She allegedly saw Combs and his associates take illegal drugs and engage in sexual acts with underage girls. In one instance, Richard and Diddy-Dirty Money member Kalenna Harper visited Combs’ Los Angeles home and he berated Ventura for not cooking his eggs correctly. He allegedly threw a pan at Ventura and dragged her upstairs, according to Richard’s lawsuit.  The following day, he brought flowers to the duo and claimed the incident was a “lover’s argument” during which no one was hurt. He threatened consequences if either went public with the incident.  Other alleged incidents include Combs pulling Ventura out of a van by her neck and pinning her to the ground, punching her in the face in the bathroom of a party, and punching her stomach in front of several high-profile celebrities - including Interscope Records founder Jimmy Iovine. Despite the incident, a $50 million distribution deal between Iovine and Combs for Combs’ music still went through. “...the Bad Boy-Interscope took place and remained in effect, providing Mr. Combs with immense financial rewards and repercussions,” the complaint read.  As Richard detailed the physical abuse and sexual assault, she also details the financial ruin of the current situation. Richard alleged in her complaint that she is owed money for royalties and license fees - money she has yet to receive. The royalties and license fees stem from other Bad Boy Records artists recording songs written by Richard.  Richard alleged that she’s owed around $1.2 million from the success of Diddy-Dirty Money, stemming from unpaid wages and royalties. She also made more than $350,000 in tour performances and at least $1.5 million for promoting Ciroc, a vodka brand Combs partnered with in the mid-2000s.  She would make her appearance in the sex trafficking trial against Combs as a witness. Richard spoke of the egg-and-pan-throwing incident, noting that Combs told her and Harper they would “go missing” if they spoke about the incident. As Richard understood that statement, she and Harper would die if they publicized the abuse. The singer isn’t the only one to accuse Combs of sexual assault and abuse as the music mogul has a laundry list of accusers with various allegations.  According to USA Today, Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones Jr., a producer on Combs’ “The Love Album,” claimed  that the “It’s All About the Benjamins” rapper groped and sexually assaulted him. He alleges that Combs facilitated others to sexual assault while also not paying him for his work. Kat Pasion, according to USA Today, claimed in the documentary series The Fall of Diddy  that Combs subjected her to nonconsensual sex during their on and off relationship in the late 2010s. The Canadian actress has not filed a lawsuit as of the publishing of this article.  USA Today’s article not only details the public accusers, but those who have remained anonymous.  A woman who was 16-years-old in 1993 when she allegedly auditioned to be Combs’ backup dancer. According to a February 2025 lawsuit, a man named “Kay” took her to a Long Island, New York home where Combs allegedly drugged and assaulted her.  She woke up hours later bloodied and in pain. She didn’t report the incident due to fear, though her parents found out and she allegedly received medical attention. A woman faced a similar fate in 1995 when she was beaten and raped during a promotional party in New York for Biggie Small’s “One More Chance” music video.  Her lawsuit was dismissed  as she refused to reveal her identity. U.S. District Court Judge Lewis J. Limna ruled that she could not proceed anonymously, and that she would have to re-file her complaint under her real name.  “As of today, March 31, 2025, (Jane Doe) has not filed a complaint in her own name, nor has she sought an extension to do so,” Liman wrote in his decision.  Her fear of public scrutiny remains the reason for not fully coming forward, according to her legal team. “There is a lot of fear amongst  these plaintiffs. I thus can’t blame her,” Texas-based attorney Tony Buzbee said in a statement to USA Today. “These are tough cases and they are many times re-traumatizing for those who pursue them. Each case stands on its own merit. This woman chose not to proceed and subject herself to the media circus and the perceived danger she felt. We have to respect that.” Combs’ legal team at the time released a statement denouncing any anonymous complaint against the Revolt co-founder. “For months, we have seen case after case filed by individuals hiding behind anonymity, pushed forward by attorneys more focused on media headlines than legal merit. The other claims, like the one dismissed today, also will not hold up in a cort of law,” Combs’ attorneys said in a statement. What Has Happened Since the Verdict? What Happens Now? At the end of July, prosecutors responded to Combs’ legal team’s newest attempt for bail. Prosecutors noted that the defense hasn’t presented a reason for the court to reconsider its decision. Prosecution cited various rulings and previous court cases, noting the strict standard for reconsidering bail: United States v. Velisarious  finding that since “the Court already denied the defendant’s request at the sentencing proceeding for bail pending appeal, the defendant’s instant [bail] motion may be properly viewed as a motion to reconsider.” United States v. Reese  denying motion to reconsider detention ruling pending appeal where defendant failed to meet standard for motion for reconsideration “To warrant reconsideration, the moving part bears the heavy burden of showing ‘an intervening change of controlling law, the availability of new evidence, or the need to correct a clear error or prevent a manifest injustice,’” the prosecution wrote in their filing, citing Virgin Atlantic Airways, Ltd v. National Mediation Bd. The prosecution notes that the defense’s new motion did not raise new issues that the Court overlooked.  As Combs continues to sit in jail following the denial of bail, President Donald Trump joins the circus-like fray.  The sitting president is considering a partial pardon for the Revolt founder, according to an administration source who spoke with Deadline . Several of Combs’ associates have been pitching for the pardon to Trump since the partial verdict.  Combs’ defense team, led by Marc Agnifilo and Teny Gerago, had “no comment” on the matter when Deadline reached out. When reaching out to the White House itself, an administration official said there won’t be discussion of any potential clemency request.

Jessica Moore, professionally known as Jess Hilarious, has been engulfed in a media storm as she aired her grievances regarding her return from maternity leave. Jess Hilarious introduced Loren LoRosa to the world of "The Breakfast Club" prior to her maternity leave. The comedian returned from maternity leave confused due to LoRosa's extended guest role. (Photo Courtesy: Getty Images, The Breakfast Club on YouTube) The comedian made it clear during an Instagram Live session that she felt unsupported by her team, notably Charlamagne Tha God and DJ Envy. She also noted how she felt blindsided by certain changes, specifically guest host Loren LoRosa. Many social media users and fellow media personalities added fuel to the fire when they compared LoRosa and Moore’s differing hosting styles. Corey Holcomb, a fellow comedian, suggested that The Breakfast Club  found someone “talented” to replace Moore during her maternity leave. “She got that job because I think she had a social media presence, I can’t imagine why else,” Holcomb said. “I always said she wasn’t talented. She got the job and got knocked up shortly afterwards. And the worst thing in the world happened, they brought in somebody talented.” Rather than focus specifically on Holcomb, or any social media user with similar sentiments, Moore used her Instagram Live session to focus on her co-hosts.  “We supposed to be a team, but not one person comes to my defense at all, ever,” Moore said. “I feel played with, so I’m gonna play with gas. I’ve been quiet a lot.”  Addressing the rumors of her alleged firing, she clarifies that she’s still part of the radio program. She initially resented LoRosa’s presence on the show, though over time, her issue wasn’t with LoRosa. Rather, her issue lies with how things were handled behind the scenes. Moore mentions Angela Yee’s departure from The Breakfast Club , noting that she understands why the former host left.  “There’s a reason that lady wanted to leave that show… I don’t know how she did that s-t for 13 years,” Moore said. Moore would later get the chance to address both her co-hosts, Charlamagne Tha God and DJ Envy, as well as LoRosa.  “How I pick [LoRosa] to fill in for me, and when I come back she ain’t never leave,” Moore began. “Nobody had a problem with Jess With The Mess , until she started reading right.” Prior to her maternity leave, Moore’s relationship with LoRosa began heading in the right direction — resulting in LoRosa heading Moore’s Jess With The Mess  segment. Moore felt uncertain about her role within the program as she returned from maternity leave, and LoRosa continued as a guest role.  Regarding the alleged high school antics behind the scenes, Moore felt Charlamagne tried to portray a false narrative and attempted to get her to dislike LoRosa. Also, she felt the show made her the villain for worrying about her future. In their discussion with Moore about the situation, Charlamagne and DJ Envy advised her to stay out of the comments as well as be confident in her abilities. The duo also praised LoRosa for bringing a journalistic approach to the show. Following her candid conversation with Charlamagne and Envy, she sat down with LoRosa to further clear the air. During the conversation, LoRosa made it clear that some of Moore’s sentiments surprised her. “I can understand some of where you was coming from, but bro, some of that Live was crazy,” LoRosa said. “The part about the ‘hush’ and ‘be quiet.’ I be feeling in real-time that ‘be quiet,’ that was crazy. That ‘shut up.’” She also mentioned a private meeting with Moore and the show’s executive producer, and she agreed that they were fighting for air time. LoRosa allegedly asked what she could do better to avoid on-air clash, though Moore doesn’t recall her expressing that. Regarding why she has told LoRosa to “hush” during the show, Moore said she feels she shouldn’t have to fight for her time if the role was initially hers.  “You over-talk,” Moore claimed. “Like I said, I’m not about to be up here fighting for no mic. If I already got the job, what am I doing?” LoRosa makes it clear that even her own mother doesn’t tell her to shut up, adding that she prefers to handle conflicts privately.  Moore first joined The Breakfast Club  in 2024 after Angela Yee’s 2022 exit. She became popular for her “Jess With Mess” videos on Instagram, which helped her gain more than five million followers. She would later star in MTV’s Wild ‘N Out  and the Fox comedy Rel  as Tiffany.

The Chicago-based non-profit cinema house approaches its fiftieth birthday, and plans to celebrate big. FACETS Film Forum Board Co-Chairs Rich Moskal and Tamara Bohórquez will the spearhead FACETS ahead of its fiftieth anniversary and for the near future (Photo Courtesy: FACETS) Known for its screenings of independent and international films, FACETS will bring in its fiftieth year of existence with a new name and fundraising events. FACETS' marquee highlights the nonprofit's fiftieth anniversary, saying "Celebrating 50 Years." The local media arts organization will change its name from FACETS Multi-Media to FACETS Film Forum. The move aims to renew its commitment to meaningful conversations through film, according to a recent press release. Paired with the new name FACETS has new programming and events slated for the milestone. Chicago on Screen , launching March 14, will highlight Chicago’s contributions to film. The series will include films such as The Fugitive and Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer  and will feature behind-the-scenes conversations with the filmmakers. FACETS’ new Board Co-Chair Rich Moskal, former director of the Chicago Film Office, will head the program. Speaking of Moskal, he brings his decades of expertise to serve alongside fellow Board Co-Chair Tamara Bohórquez. Bohórquez, a creative strategist and FACETS advocate, will serve as a bridge to founder Milos Stehlik’s vision, according to FACETS’ press release.  “With Rich’s industry expertise and Tamara’s dedication to our mission, we are poised to make a greater impact on Chicago’s cultural landscape,” FACETS Film Form executive director Karen Cardarelli said. 5 Films, 5 Decades, 5 Critics , another program launching this April, will highlight five films connected to FACETS’ history. Film Program Director Charles Coleman will curate the program, showcasing filmmakers and hosting discussions with local critics. As FACETS will host a slate of special events, they aim to reinvest into its programming and growth through a $1 million fundraising campaign. Bohórquez declared in the press release that 25 percent, or $250K, has been raised and FACETS is committed to reaching the $1 million within the next two years. The nonprofit will host two fundraisers this year, Beyond the Red Carpet and 50th Anniversary Celebration . The former took place on Feb. 22 as a pre-Academy Awards event with film critic Lee Shoquist and Sing Sing director Greg Kwedar. The latter will take place later this year, though details on honorees, location and sponsorships are yet to be announced. Tune in to the Latest of 49th Block News [February 20, 2025] FACETS began in a church on the northside of Chicago with founder Milos Stehlik running a borrowed 16mmm projector from the choir loft. Patrons would sit in the hardwood pews below to enjoy whatever film Stehlik put on.  One such film was then-banned Italian-Algerian anti-war film, The Battle of Algiers (1966). The film served as a hallmark screening during the early years, helping solidify FACETS as one of Chicago’s early art house cinemas that routinely screen international films.  For the past five decades, FACETS has become synonymous with bold cinematic exploration while inspiring brave conversations. In 2023, FACETS spearheaded the Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals to support Chicago’s independent film festival sector.

The "Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath" costar died soon after the new year. Mike Rinder, a former member of Scientology and an outspoken critic of the organization, died on Sunday. His wife, Christie Collbran, shared the news on Instagram alongside a family photo with their sons, Shane and Jack. The cause of death remains unclear as Collbran’s post didn’t mention it. Rinder was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in June 2023 and later noted that his treatments were working in an October 2023 post. “Rest in peace, my sweet, beautiful husband. I speak for so many when I say the sadness and pain we feel mirror the depth of our unwavering love for you,” Collbran’s post read. “Your courage, bravery, and integrity are unmatched and will forever inspire us.” Colbran also shared Rinder’s last words per his request, which were included in a blog post titled, “Farewell.”  “I have been lucky — living two lives in one lifetime. The second one the most wonderful years anyone could wish for with all of you and my new family,” Rinder’s post read. “My only regret is not having achieved what I said I wanted to — ending the abuses of Scientology, especially disconnection, and seeing Jack into adulthood.” Rinder would end his farewell message by saying: “Let the flowers grow and look to the future … With that said, I rest in peace … The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living.” The Australian-born author was raised in Scientology and grew up to serve in various executive roles, namely as a member of the organization’s Board of Directors. He left the Church of Scientology in 2007 and became a well-known whistleblower.  He was featured in HBO’s “Going Clear: Scientology & the Prison of Belief” and co-hosted “Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath” for three seasons. The A&E documentary series followed Rinder and Leah Remini, who also left the organization, as they dissected the abuse and harassment within the Church of Scientology. The duo later launched their podcast, Scientology: Fair Game , which ran until 2022 and Rinder released a memoir the next year, titled A Billion Years: My Escape From a Life in the Highest Ranks of Scientology . Remini would release an emotional tribute to Rinder following the news of his death. “On Sunday, we lost a giant, and I lost a man who was more than a friend — he was a family," Lemini's post read. " It ’s impossible to imagine the last 13 years of my life without Mike Rinder. He was my anchor, my trusted partner, and my closest confidant. The thought of moving forward without him feels unbearable.” Rinder was 69-years-old.