Actor Will Smith has made a forceful public statement addressing social media memes connecting him to Sean “Diddy” Combs, emphasizing he has maintained significant distance from the embattled music mogul who faces serious federal charges.
Speaking at a San Diego event on Thursday, the Academy Award winner directly confronted the circulation of online content suggesting ties between himself and Combs. While acknowledging some of the social media posts as humorous, Smith drew a firm line regarding his association with Combs, who currently faces multiple federal charges including sex trafficking and racketeering.
“I ain’t been nowhere near no damn ‘Freak Off,'” Smith declared to his audience, referencing allegations about extended parties allegedly hosted by Combs involving sex workers. The term has become central to allegations against the music producer. Despite historical photographs showing Smith among numerous celebrities who socialized with Combs in the early 2000s, the actor emphasized his complete separation from any controversial activities.
The situation has grown increasingly complex as Tony Buzbee, an attorney representing approximately 120 alleged victims in civil cases against Combs, suggests other celebrities may be implicated in alleged crimes. Recently, musician Jay-Z became entangled in related legal matters, facing a civil lawsuit containing serious allegations about an incident at an awards show after-party in 2000. Jay-Z has denied these claims and moved to dismiss the lawsuit.
Combs, who has maintained his innocence and entered a not guilty plea, is scheduled to face trial on federal charges beginning May 5. The case continues to send shockwaves through the entertainment industry, prompting various celebrities to clarify their past associations with the music mogul.
