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Mother Of Combs’s Ex Cassie Testifies At Music Mogul’s Trial

The ex-partner of Sean “Diddy” Combs’s daughter, Cassie, testified on Tuesday about the threats and violence her daughter encountered while dating the music mogul for ten years.

After her daughter Casandra Ventura, the singer known as Cassie, who described harrowing abuse by Combs and his coercive, drug-fueled sex marathons known as “freak-offs,” Regina Ventura took the stand after several days of grueling testimony from her daughter.

Combs, 55, is accused of sex trafficking and leading an illegal sex ring that imposed its authority through crimes like arson, kidnapping, and bribery.

On Monday, Ventura’s attorneys inquired about an email her daughter, a key witness in the trial, sent her on December 23, 2011.

Cassie, 38, claimed last week that Combs had become angry after learning she had been seeing rapper Kid Cudi, who is actually Scott Mescudi, in late 2011.

Cassie told her mother in an email that Combs threatened to make videos of her attending his sex parties in response.

Takeaways From The First Week of the Testimony [Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Trial] READ ALSO:

On May 20, 2025, Regina Ventura, the mother of Cassie Ventura, testifies in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex trafficking trial in New York City. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP)

Sean Puffy Combs has threatened to release two explicit tapes of me, Ventura said in an aloud reading of the email.

He also stated that Scott Mescudi and I would be physically harmed.

Ventura described the threats as “physically unforgiving.” The sex tape threw me because I didn’t understand it.

Cassie’s attorneys, alleging she voluntarily participated, claimed Combs’ defense attorneys sought to discredit her testimony on the sex parties.

Ventura claimed on Tuesday that Combs demanded $20,000 to recover the money he had spent on her because he was already very wealthy at the time and Forbes magazine now estimates his fortune to be around $ 700 million.

Cassie’s mother argued that the money was ultimately used to ensure her daughter’s “safety,” and that it was ultimately paid.

On the eve of the 60th Annual Grammy Awards on January 28, 2018, in New York, singer and model Cassie Ventura (L) and rapper P Diddy (also known as Sean Combs) make their way to the traditional Clive Davis party. (Photo by Jewel SAMAD/AFP) &nbsp

On Tuesday, Ventura was also questioned about images of Cassie that showed bruises on her body, which were also taken at the same time in late 2011.

She had bruising. She said, “We wanted to make sure we remembered that Sean Combs had beaten her.”

Combs is frequently credited with helping to mainstream hip-hop, having earned hundreds of millions in the music, fashion, media, and liquor industries.

However, the rap producer and international star, who was once renowned for hosting lavish parties, now appears to have spent months behind bars.

He has entered a not-guilty plea, but if found guilty, he could spend the rest of his days in prison.

The defense contends that Ventura’s relationship with Combs was not sex trafficking, despite the complexity of the relationship and domestic abuse.

Cheers star George Wendt’s hidden Ted Lasso link as fans spot eerie tribute

George Wendt, the actor who played the beloved Cheers TV series, passed away at the age of 76, and he leaves behind a well-known Ted Lasso nephew.

George Wendt was best known for his role as Norm Peterson in the iconic sitcom Cheers(Image: NBCUniversal via Getty Images)

The legendary actor George Wendt, who tragically passed away at the age of 76, is related to a significant Ted Lasso star.

The actor, who was best known for playing Norm Peterson in the recognizable sitcom Cheers, passed away peacefully in his sleep, his family confirmed.

A representative for the Hollywood Reporter stated to the media that George was a loyal ally of those who had the opportunity to have known him. He will forever be missed. This is the time for the family to request privacy.

The American star, who plays Bob Swerski, one of the fervent superfans frequently seen crowding around Coach Mike Ditka’s diner and passionately supports “Da Bears,” delighted viewers on Saturday Night Live during his distinguished career.

READ MORE: George Wendt dead: Cheers icon’s family pay tribute to Norm Peterson actor

George Wendt
George Wendt has passed away at the age of 76(Image: Getty Images)

He also boasted an impressive back catalogue of film appearances, gracing screens in Dreamscape (1984), House (1985), Fletch (1985), Gung Ho (1986), Plain Clothes (1987), Never Say Die (1988), Guilty by Suspicion (1991), Forever Young (1992) and the pop culture hit Spice World (1997).

Continue reading the article.

But George enjoyed spending quality time with his devoted family, which included his wife Bernadette and their three children, Hilary, Joe, and Daniel. Additionally, he leaves his nephew, Jason Sudeikis, who plays Ted Lasso’s lead character.

While appearing on an episode of the Still Here Hollywood podcast, George gushed over his pride for his famous nephew. The Cheers star shared: “Proud especially, you know, not only of the success, but he’s solid. Have you read profiles and stuff? I mean he is such a mesh, so smart, so thoughtful. I mean, it all comes out in the show. Right?”

Ted Lasso’s finale and Cheers’ final episode, which pays homage to the uncle and nephew duo, have even had a touching relationship.

Bartender Mae straightens a framed photo of Apache leader Geronimo at the Crown &amp, Anchor during the season three finale of Ted Lasso. The subtle but heartfelt scene was inspired by Cheers’ ending, which featured a similar image and Sam’s subtle gesture.

Jason Sudeikis
Jason Sudeikis, who played the lead role in Ted Lasso, is the nephew of George Wendt(Image: Handout)

The news of George’s passing comes 32 years after the last Cheers episode aired on television, a heartbreaking coincidence. The actor won six Primetime Emmy Awards for his beloved role as the beer-chugging regular Norm with a run of 275 episodes under his belt.

Continue reading the article.

On X, formerly Twitter, tributes poured in from fans mourning their favourite TV bar patron, with one writing: “George Wendt, beloved for his role as Norm on Cheers, has died at 77. With a beer in hand and a heart of gold, he made millions feel like regulars. A true legend of TV comfort and comedy.”

One of the most recognizable sitcom characters of my lifetime, Norm Peterson, is to be portrayed in another person’s words. Big guy, congratulations. “Rest simple.”

Cassie’s mum took out loan to pay Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs as she feared for daughter’s safety

The jury in the case of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs heard how the mother of his ex, Cassie Ventura, was scared for her daughter’s safety so took out a loan to try to pay off the rapper

The Diddy case continues

Cassie Ventura’s mother revealed the extent she went to to protect her daughter after admitting she was “scared” of what Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs might have done.

As the case against the disgraced rapper, 55, continues, a court has heard the testimonies of more witnesses, including the mother of Combs’ ex. Taking to the stand in the Manhattan court house, Regina Ventura testified that in December 2011, her daughter emailed her and Combs’s assistant while she was flying home for Christmas.

The email allegedly told them how Combs had been threatening to release explicit videos of Ventura after he discovered she had been dating rapper Kid Cudi. In the email, Ventura is also said to have threatened he would “be having someone hurt” her and Cudi.

Regina Ventura, mother of Cassie Ventura, departs the Manhattan Federal Court
Regina Ventura at the Manhattan court(Image: Getty Images)

Ventura Sr also claimed Combs demanded $20,000 to reclaim what he said he spent on his ex. Ventura Sr said she took out a home equity loan with her husband to get the money for Combs.

She described doing it because she was “scared about my daughter’s safety”. It’s claimed she received instructions from Combs’s bookkeeper about how to wire the money and sent it to him. However, it’s said the money was returned to her several days later.

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After returning home, Ventura Sr is also said to have learned of the alleged violence by the rapper towards her daughter and took photographic evidence.

The court also heard on Tuesday how the disgraced rapper once warned an employee “you can’t put hands on women” following an altercation. The claim came during the cross-examination of David James, the former assistant to Combs.

James spoke of a time he was in an altercation with one of Combs’ chefs and how the Bad Boy Records founder later confront him about the situation. Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo asked James about the incident while he was on the stand at the lower Manhattan court room.

David James arriving at court
David James arriving at court(Image: Getty Images)

Follow the Mirror’s live blog of the case here.

James acknowledged the moment, admitting he got into an altercation with one of Combs’ then-chefs, a woman, at Combs’ Star Island home in Florida. He testified that he had grown upset by the chef as she tired to tell him where the musician had to be.

James said he “grabbed her two wrists and squeezed her wrists and told her to stay in her … lane.” After the altercation was reported to human resources within Combs’ Bad Boy Entertainment company, the incident got back to the star. He then confronted James.

According to James, when he told Combs what had happened in the incident, the star told him: “You can’t be putting your hands on women.” James then said he was warned he would have to be fired if it happened again.

James then claimed Combs told him to write a note to the chef and to give her a gift. James testified that he followed Combs’ advice and was later forgiven by the woman.

Cassie Ventura testified last week
Cassie Ventura testified last week(Image: REUTERS)

The evidence came as James also testified that he saw the rapper take drugs and provided him with baby oil, lubricant and condoms for his hotel rooms. James told the court that Combs would stay with women, including ex girlfriend Cassie Ventura.

The court hearing entered its seventh day on Tuesday. The 55-year-old hip hop mogul faces a number of charges, including racketeering conspiracy, sex ­trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and transportation to engage in prostitution.

The case comes after was arrested in September last year. Combs continues to strongly deny all allegations made against him. He has been in prison since his arrest and has seen a number of bail requests rejected since his incarceration.

James’ testimony comes after singer Dawn Richard, who was part of the MTV show Making The Band that was produced by Cobs, appeared in the witness box on Monday. Ventura’s former friend Kerry Morgan also took to the stand on Monday, while Ventura herself had provided evidence last week.

The case continues.

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If you’ve been the victim of sexual assault, you can access help and resources via www.rapecrisis.org.uk or calling the national telephone helpline on 0808 802 9999

George Wendt dead: Cheers icon’s family pay tribute to Norm Peterson actor

George Wendt – who was best known for his role as Norm Peterson in the iconic sitcom Cheers – has died at the age of 76, his family has confirmed

Actor George Wendt, famed for his role as Norm Peterson in Cheers, has sadly passed away at the age of 76. The sitcom legend, who was the uncle of Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikis, died peacefully in his sleep at his home earlier today.

His family confirmed the sad news in a statement. A representative told the Hollywood Reporter: ‘George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.’

The announcement of George’s death falls on a particularly poignant date, with the final episode of Cheers airing on television 32 years ago today. George appeared in all 275 episodes of the long-running sitcom and earned six Primetime Emmy Award nominations for his portrayal of beer-loving Norm.

Diane Meets Mom
Tributes have been pouring in for the late actor (Image: NBCUniversal via Getty Images)

The late dad-of-three also played the popular character in the short-lived spin-off The Tortellis, in an episode of Wings, and in an episode of the successful Cheers spin-off, Frasier.

Paying tribute on Twitter (X), one fan of the late star wrote: “George Wendt, beloved for his role as Norm on Cheers, has died at 77. With a beer in hand and a heart of gold, he made millions feel like regulars. A true legend of TV comfort and comedy.”

Article continues below

Hailing from Chicago and brought up on the South Side, George first made waves in the 1970s with Second City, the renowned improv comedy group from his neck of the woods.

He later became a familiar face on Saturday Night Live as Bob Swerski, one of the “superfans” who would congregate at Coach Mike Ditka’s eatery in the Windy City to cheer on “Da Bears.”

George Wendt attends Wizard World Comic Con Chicago at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center on August 23, 2019 in Rosemont, Illinois.
The Cheers legend pictured at Wizard World Comic Con Chicago in 2023(Image: Getty Images)

The late actor’s filmography includes roles in Dreamscape (1984), House (1985), Fletch (1985), Gung Ho (1986), Plain Clothes (1987), Never Say Die (1988), Guilty by Suspicion (1991), Forever Young (1992) and Spice World (1997).

Additionally, he portrayed the cantankerous dad of a son (played by Macaulay Culkin) with a penchant for blaring music in Michael Jackson’s iconic 1991 “Black or White” music video, directed by Jon Landis.

One of his final appearances on the small screen came about in 2023, when the late dad-of-three appeared on competed in season nine of The Masked Singer US.

George sung as “Moose”, where he was mostly sitting during the performance, and was eliminated on “’80s Night” alongside Christine Quinn of Selling Sunset fame as “Scorpio. He also made a surprise appearance on stage when he reunited with the Cheers cast at the Emmy Awards in 2024.

Actor George Wendt attends the 2019 Wizard World Comic Con at Pennsylvania Convention Center on June 16, 2019
George was seen walking with a cane earlier this year(Image: Getty Images)

George sparked health concerns earlier this year as he was pictured during a rare outing after keeping a low profile for several months. The actor was spotted on Wednesday, Jan. 29, stepping out of a car with his wife, Bernadette Birkett. He was dressed in a red and green flannel shirt, black shorts and white New Balance trainers.

As George exited the vehicle, he used a cane for support and also held onto part of the car. He was also photographed sitting in a wheelchair, donning a face mask, while Bernadette pushed him around. She was dressed in all black with a plaid scarf.

The couple shared a tender moment as they were seen holding hands. The specifics of George’s health issues remained private, but it was known that the late actor had a health scare in 2012. He was hospitalised with chest pains and was due to perform in a local production in Chicago when it was later reported that he had undergone coronary bypass surgery after doctors discovered a constricted artery.

George is survived by his wife Bernadette Birkett and their three children: Hilary, Joe, and Daniel.

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Kevin Spacey Says ‘Glad To Be Working Again’

On the sidelines of the Cannes film festival, Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey accepted a lifetime’s achievement award from a charity. He declared on Tuesday that he was “glad to be working again.”

Spacey’s attendance at a gala dinner hosted by the Better World Fund&nbsp is yet another positive step in the recovery of the famous actor who has been plagued by sexual assault allegations.

“It’s amazing how much love and affection surrounds me. In the week since the announcement of this award, he told reporters at the event, “I’ve heard from so many of my friends, coworkers, and co-stars.” It’s very nice to be back, he said.

When questioned if a comeback was imminent, he responded, “I’m glad to be working, I’ll tell you that.”

Read more about French rapper Laid To Rest at the age of 31.

Spacey hasn’t been seen on the red carpet since 2016 as a result of the main festival’s pressure from lawmakers and #MeToo anti-abuse activists, which has led to the invitation to Cannes.

Theo Navarro-Mussy, a French actor who denies rape allegations made by three women, was last week prohibited from the premiere of a French movie in the competition for the festival’s top prize.

When contacted by AFP, a festival spokesperson declined to comment on Spacey’s presence in Cannes.

In 2023, Spacey was cleared of nine alleged sex offences in Britain, and a New York court dismissed a $40 million civil sexual misconduct lawsuit brought against him in 2022.

However, a British television documentary called “Spacey Unmasked” made fresh allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior in May.

In it, Spacey was accused of acting inappropriately toward 10 men who are not parties to the UK court case against him.

The 65-year-old has always denied any wrongdoing.

Ruari Cannon’s attorneys informed AFP in February that the actor, who served as artistic director of Spacey and London’s Old Vic Theatre between 2003 and 2015, would file a lawsuit with Britain’s High Court.

Cannon, a 53-year-old American star, claimed in the documentary that Spacey touched him inappropriately in London at the age of 21.

Adam Ramey dead: Rap-metal band Dropout Kings singer dies at 32 as group pays tribute

The lead singer of hit rap-metal band Dropout Kings has died at the age of 32, his heartbroken bandmates have confirmed. The band released a statement to announce the tragic death of their “brother” Adam Ramey.

The band wrote: “Life comes at you in ways you can never predict. The rollercoaster of chasing your dreams and building with your brothers and friends is a joy few get to know… With the heaviest hearts, we share that our brother, Adam Ramey, has passed away.

“His passion, energy, and love for music shaped Dropout Kings and touched countless lives. Adam’s spirit, charisma, and energy will not only forever inspire us, but will push us into the future to be the best that we can.”






Adam Ramey has died at 32
(
adam_ramey/Instagram)

They signed off their Facebook post: “Thank you for everything, Chip. Rest in power, Adam. We’ll always love you, fam.”

While no cause of death was confirmed in the statement, a GoFundMe page set up by his brother-in-law following the sad news said the star had died by suicide. The description on the fundraiser, which was set up to help support Adam’s child and wife, read: “On May 19th, just five days before his 32nd birthday, we lost Adam Ramey—beloved husband, father, son, and lead vocalist of Dropout Kings—to suicide after a long and painful battle with addiction.

“Adam wasn’t just my brother-in-law. He was like a real brother to me. He saved my life during one of my darkest times and always showed up for the people he loved.

“He brought life and energy to every room, every family gathering, and every stage he stepped on. Watching him perform—especially at local shows in Phoenix or when he came to Tampa—was unforgettable.”

It continued: “Adam loved deeply. He was a devoted husband to my 29-year-old sister, Jamie, and a proud father to their 18-month-old son, Jude. He was also an incredible uncle, friend, and human being.

“Now Jamie is left grieving the love of her life while raising their baby boy alone. She’s facing not only unimaginable heartbreak but also the financial weight of funeral expenses and legal costs.”

The fundraiser had set out to raise $30,000 to help Adam’s wife and child. At the time of writing, over $21,000 had been raised by almost 200 donators.

*If you’re struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch

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