Music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs appeared markedly changed during his recent court hearing in New York, showing visible signs of his three-month detention at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.
Law & Crime reporter Elizabeth Millner, who attended Wednesday's hearing, described the 55-year-old rapper as "astonishingly thinner" compared to his pre-arrest appearance. She also noted his hair appeared grayer than when he was last seen playing hacky sack in Central Park days before his September arrest.
While a source close to Combs tells a different story, claiming the rapper remains "fit, healthy and fully focused on his defense," the changes in his appearance suggest the stark contrast between his previous luxury lifestyle and current prison conditions.
Despite the physical changes, Combs appeared in good spirits when his sons Christian and Justin entered the courtroom, with witnesses noting he "smiled" and "beamed up" upon seeing them.
The rapper, who faces serious charges including sex trafficking and racketeering, has been denied bail three times since his arrest. His trial is scheduled for May 5, 2025, with prosecutors indicating they plan to complete discovery by year's end.
Former inmates have described the facility where Combs is held as having limited amenities, with one noting that his celebrity status offers no special treatment. The facility provides basic meals, with holiday spreads for occasions like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Combs maintains his innocence and has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Beyond his federal case, he also faces multiple civil lawsuits related to sexual assault claims.
The next pretrial hearing is set for March 17, 2025.