Nick Cannon has recently opened up about his inner conflict regarding his friend Sean “Diddy” Combs’ legal troubles. On his “Counsel Culture” show, he revisited a February episode where he discussed the music mogul with Iyanla Vanzant, predating Homeland Security Investigations raiding two of Combs’ homes in connection to alleged sex trafficking.
Reflecting on the situation, Cannon expressed the challenge he faces when questioned about people he knows personally. He recalled a moment on ‘The Breakfast Club’ or Angela Yee’s show where he responded to inquiries about Puff. “I answered it as honestly as I knew how to answer it,” he mentioned. “I find difficulty when I’m asked about people that I know about… I kind of said, ‘I’m praying for Cassie… This is someone who was hurt, who was victimized.'”
Cannon emphasized the personal connection he has with these individuals, stating, “I know these people. They’re not just public figures to me, so I have to almost do this dance about when it comes up, because just as much as I know Diddy, I know Cassie.”
Combs Settles Lawsuit with Ex-Girlfriend Cassie Ventura Over Rape and Abuse Allegations
In November, singer Cassie Ventura, Combs’ ex-girlfriend, filed a civil suit accusing Combs of rape, sex trafficking, and physical abuse. The suit was settled for an undisclosed amount a day later.
In her lawsuit, Cassie alleged that Combs lured her into a lifestyle filled with drugs and a romantic relationship when she was 19. She claimed that Combs provided her with drugs and alcohol, subjected her to physical abuse, and exerted control over various aspects of her life, including her healthcare and career opportunities. Additionally, she accused Combs of raping her in 2018 and coercing her into unwanted sexual encounters with male prostitutes whom he hired and recorded their interactions.
Ben Brafman, Combs’ lawyer, stated following the settlement, “Just so we’re clear, a decision to settle a lawsuit, especially in 2023, is in no way an admission of wrongdoing. Mr. Combs’ decision to settle the lawsuit does not in any way undermine his flat-out denial of the claims. He is happy they got to a mutual settlement and wishes Ms. Ventura the best.”
Cannon also shared his conflicted feelings, pondering what to make of the situation. He reflected on his own experiences, particularly referencing the support he received during his own controversies, leading him to question what obligations arise in such circumstances.
Nick Cannon’s Antisemitism Controversy and Revolt’s Offer Amidst Legal Woes for Diddy
Nick Cannon’s podcast conversation with Richard “Professor Griff” Griffin in July 2020 ignited controversy as he promoted antisemitic conspiracy theories and praised Louis Farrakhan, leader of the Nation of Islam. Following immediate backlash, ViacomCBS terminated Cannon’s contract, condemning his remarks and asserting its stance against antisemitism. Initially, Cannon refused to apologize, demanding ownership of his show “Wild ‘N Out,” which was ViacomCBS-owned. However, two days later, he issued an apology on social media.
In an effort to educate and amend, Cannon invited rabbis and Jewish leaders onto his show to engage in candid discussions. Eventually, ViacomCBS reinstated its contract with Cannon in February 2021, with plans to resume production of “Wild ‘N Out” on VH1 with Cannon as host.
During his fallout with ViacomCBS, Sean “Diddy” Combs offered Cannon a job at Revolt, the cable television network he chaired. However, Combs faced his own controversies, including sexual assault lawsuits from Cassie and Joi Dickerson-Neal, prompting him to step down as chairman in November. Combs extended support to Cannon, urging him to join Revolt as it was “truly BLACK OWNED.”
In conversations with Iyanla Vanzant, Cannon grappled with his role in defending Combs publicly, ultimately acknowledging that it wasn’t his responsibility. Vanzant advised him to refrain from feeling obligated to speak out and instead focus on healing away from the public eye.
