Bill Maher raised critical questions about the music industry’s handling of allegations against Sean “Diddy” Combs during a recent episode of *Real Time with Bill Maher.* Discussing Combs’ recent arrest by the FBI in connection to multiple accusations of misconduct, Maher expressed his long-standing concern about the lack of accountability in the music industry, particularly in light of the #MeToo movement that gained momentum in 2017.
Maher pointed out the stark contrast between the scrutiny faced by individuals in other sectors, such as NPR, and the seemingly unchecked behavior in the music industry. He questioned why it has taken so long for serious allegations against prominent figures like Combs to come to light, stating, “The music industry is this open cesspool of misogyny, and frankly, rape and sexual harassment, and somehow, the angel of death has just flown over them.”
Fran Lebowitz, joining Maher on the panel, suggested that the lucrative nature of the music industry may play a role in its ability to evade scrutiny. She remarked, “I think because this is a capitalist country, and the music industry is much more lucrative than NPR,” implying that financial interests often overshadow ethical considerations.
Lebowitz also noted that many stories surrounding the allegations against Combs were not new, indicating that awareness existed long before the recent legal actions. “Puffy, this was not exactly a state secret,” she said, underscoring the pervasive knowledge of Combs’ alleged behavior within industry circles.
The discussion comes in the wake of Cassie Ventura’s lawsuit against Combs last November, where she accused him of rape and abuse. Since then, more individuals have come forward with allegations, contributing to the growing number of charges against the music mogul. Just recently, another lawsuit was filed by a Jane Doe, alleging a series of severe offenses by Combs starting in 2021, including intimidation and drugging.
Maher’s comments reflect a broader conversation about accountability and change within the music industry, especially as more victims speak out about their experiences.
