Sean “Diddy” Combs, once a towering figure in music, fashion, and business, is now witnessing the rapid unraveling of his empire. In the wake of serious allegations-including sexual assault, racketeering, and other legal troubles-major brands and partners are distancing themselves from the hip-hop mogul at an unprecedented pace. Here’s a detailed look at the most significant companies and institutions that have severed ties with Diddy-and why.

1. Macy’s

Nature of Partnership: Exclusive retailer for Sean John clothing and fragrance lines
Action: In late 2023, Macy’s announced it would phase out Sean John from its stores, ending a long-standing, lucrative relationship. At its peak, Sean John generated over $500 million annually, making this a major blow to Diddy’s fashion business.

2. Diageo

Nature of Partnership: Spirits giant behind Cîroc Vodka and DeLeón Tequila, both heavily promoted by Diddy
Action: Diageo ended their partnership in January 2024 after protracted legal disputes and mounting allegations. This cut off one of Diddy’s most lucrative revenue streams, reportedly earning him tens of millions per year.

3. Empower Global

Nature of Partnership: Diddy’s online marketplace for Black-owned businesses
Action: In December 2023, 18 brands confirmed they severed ties with Empower Global. Notable departures included Tsuri, Nuudii System, No One Clothiers, Fulaba, and House of Takura. These brands cited the seriousness of the allegations and a commitment to supporting victims’ rights.

4. Peloton

Nature of Partnership: Licensing Diddy’s music and the Bad Boy Entertainment Artist Series for fitness classes
Action: In May 2024, Peloton “paused” the use of Diddy’s music and removed his artist series from the platform after a video surfaced showing him assaulting Cassie, further escalating public backlash.

5. America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses

Nature of Partnership: Retailer of Sean John eyewear
Action: In May 2024, the company instructed stores to remove all Sean John products from shelves and began removing them from their online store, signaling a complete break.

6. Capital Preparatory Charter Schools

Nature of Partnership: Diddy was a co-founder and major supporter
Action: In November 2023, the school’s leadership announced it was ending its partnership with Diddy, citing the best interests of the organization and its students.

7. Revolt TV

Nature of Partnership: Diddy was the founder and chairman of the cable network
Action: Diddy stepped down as chairman in November 2023 and later fully severed ties with the company, marking the end of his involvement in the media venture he launched.

8. Additional Brand Partners

Nature of Partnership: Various Empower Global marketplace brands and other ventures
Action: Brands like Rebecca Allen (footwear), House of Takura (eyewear), and others publicly confirmed their departure, reinforcing the broad impact of the allegations.

9. Cannabis Venture

Nature of Partnership: Diddy’s $185 million acquisition in the cannabis industry
Action: The venture failed due to complications with the merger and the fallout from legal troubles, further shrinking Diddy’s business footprint.

10. Media and Entertainment Projects

Nature of Partnership: Various TV and music projects, including deals with Love Records and Hulu
Action: Multiple media and entertainment deals have been dissolved or quietly dropped since the allegations surfaced, including a planned reality show with Hulu.

At a Glance: The Diddy Fallout

Why Are Brands Walking Away?

The exodus began in late 2023 after Diddy was accused of sexual assault, racketeering, and other serious offenses by multiple women. These allegations, combined with federal charges and court-ordered settlements, led to a rapid erosion of trust and commercial viability for Diddy’s business ventures. Companies and institutions, eager to protect their own reputations and values, acted swiftly to sever ties.

The Bottom Line

The rapid collapse of Diddy’s business relationships highlights how quickly brands can move to protect their reputations in the face of controversy, especially when allegations are as serious and public as those against Combs.As more brands walk away, the future of Diddy’s once-massive empire remains uncertain-and the business world is watching closely.

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