In a dramatic turn of events, Jay-Z is reportedly severing all ties with Sean "Diddy" Combs following recent sexual assault allegations that have entangled both music industry moguls.
According to inside sources speaking to media outlets, Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, has taken decisive steps to distance himself from Combs after being named in a lawsuit alleging a sexual assault at a 2000 MTV Video Music Awards afterparty.
"The moment Diddy was arrested, Jay-Z scrubbed him from his existence," revealed an insider close to the situation. The source emphasized that Carter "has zero loyalty to Diddy" and would be willing to take any measures necessary to protect his reputation.
The lawsuit claims both men were involved in assaulting a 13-year-old girl at the afterparty. Jay-Z has strongly denied these allegations, calling them "idiotic" and refusing to settle. His legal team has pointed out several inconsistencies in the accuser's story, including timeline impossibilities.
Carter's attorney, Alex Shapiro, made clear that his client's relationship with Combs was strictly professional: "Mr. Carter has nothing to do with Mr. Combs' case or Mr. Combs. They knew each other professionally for a number of years, just like in all professions, people know each other."
The insider also revealed that Carter was particularly disturbed by leaked footage showing Combs in an altercation with his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, which reportedly became "a deciding factor" in publicly distancing himself from the embattled music mogul.
While both men face serious allegations, their paths have diverged significantly. Combs currently awaits trial at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center on charges including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, while Jay-Z focuses on defending his reputation and protecting his family's interests.
The ongoing situation highlights the rapid unraveling of what was once considered a powerful alliance in the music industry, as Jay-Z appears determined to separate his legacy from the mounting controversies surrounding his former associate.