The long-awaited trial for music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs started Monday, May 5, in New York. Jury selection opened with a list of big-name celebrities tied to the case.
Jury questionnaire includes celebrities
More than 600 people reportedly filled out jury questionnaires for the trial, but by Monday, around 150 potential jurors were selected for in-person questioning. That pool was then given a list of more than 150 names, including Michael B. Jordan, Kid Cudi, and Kanye West. The list appears to cover people connected to Combs, whether through past relationships, business or legal disputes.
Jordan, who is currently riding the success of “Sinners,” was part of the list.
Singer Cassie Ventura reportedly began a “flirtatious relationship” with an actor during a break from Combs, according to her suit. While Jordan was not named in Ventura’s original 2023 complaint, Monday’s filings implied he was the actor referenced. Combs allegedly called and threatened Jordan when he found out about his relationship with Ventura.
A CNN source reports Jordan will not be called as a witness. However, Ventura is expected to testify despite settling her civil lawsuit against Combs just a day after filing it in 2023.
Kid Cudi’s connection detailed
Ventura’s lawsuit also claims that in 2011, during a rough patch with Combs, she had a brief relationship with musician Kid Cudi.
When Combs found out, Ventura said he lunged at her with a corkscrew and later threatened to blow up Cudi’s car. Around that time, Kid Cudi’s car reportedly exploded in his driveway.
Kanye West’s recent tie to Combs
As for West, he released a song with Combs in March, adding his name to the lengthy list of people connected to the mogul.
Trial timeline ahead
Rolling Stone reports Combs admitted to feeling “a little nervous” on Monday before requesting a bathroom break around noon.
The court will ultimately select 12 jurors and six alternates, with the trial expected to last six to eight weeks. Opening statements are scheduled for May 12.
