Will Smith has requested people stop posting memes on social media that align him with Sean “Diddy” Combs, saying he hasn’t been anywhere near the controversial music mogul.
The Oscar-winning actor was speaking onstage Thursday in San Diego, California, when he referred to his name being associated with that of Combs, who is currently awaiting trial on charges of sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution, all of which he denies.
News.com.au reports on a video obtained by TMZ that saw Smith telling his audience: “I been seein’ y’all memes and stuff. I see the memes. Some of that stuff is funny, some of it’s funny… I just wanna say this very clearly: I don’t have s**t to do with Puffy, so you all can stop all them memes. Y’all can stop all of that bulls**t. I ain’t been nowhere near no damn ‘Freak Off.’”
He reiterated: “I ain’t been nowhere near that man, ain’t did none of that stupid s**t.”
Smith was referring to allegations that Combs had hosted ‘Freak Off’ parties – days-long sex parties involving multiple sex workers. The Men in Black star was previously photographed partying with Combs in the early 2000s, along with dozens of other high-profile figures.
Since Combs was charged, there has been speculation regarding his close association with other famous names. Tony Buzbee, lawyer for up to 120 of Combs’ alleged victims in separate civil suits, has alleged that he has knowledge of other stars — besides Diddy — who partook in the sex crimes.
This week saw Combs’ former collaborator Jay-Z become the subject of a civil lawsuit, alleging he participated in the rape of a 13-year-old girl alongside Combs at an awards after-party in 2000. Jay-Z has denied the allegations and filed to dismiss the lawsuit.
Combs is set to stand trial for his federal case on May 5. He has denied any wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty.
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