Source of Explosive Diddy Netflix Footage Revealed by Former Videographer

The footage shocked viewers. It showed Sean “Diddy” Combs in private moments before his arrest. The source of that material for the Netflix documentary has now been revealed. Combs’ former personal videographer has broken his silence.

Michael Oberlies released a statement to Rolling Stone. He said he was working on a project about Combs for over two years. The footage was taken by a freelancer who covered for him for three days.

Netflix and 50 Cent Maintain Footage Was Obtained Legally

The footage includes scenes from Combs’ New York hotel room. It shows conversations with his legal team. Combs is currently serving a 50-month prison sentence. A spokesperson for the music mogul has condemned the Netflix series.

They called it a “shameful hit piece.” The statement accused Netflix of using stolen, unauthorized footage. It said Combs had been amassing his own footage since age nineteen.

Netflix and executive producer 50 Cent have consistently denied these claims. A Netflix statement said the footage was “legally obtained.” The streamer said the project was not a hit piece or an act of retribution. Director Alexandria Stapleton said they worked hard to protect their source’s identity.

Broader Impact and Fallout From the Documentary

The documentary has intensified scrutiny on Combs’ legal saga. He was found guilty on two federal charges related to prostitution in July. He was sentenced to prison in October. The series has sparked debate about accountability and storytelling in the entertainment industry.

50 Cent defended the project in a televised interview. He suggested silence from others would imply hip-hop was fine with the alleged behaviors. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between personal privacy, public interest, and legal narratives.

The revelation about the Diddy Netflix documentary footage source adds a new layer to this complex story. It underscores the fierce battle over narrative control surrounding one of music’s biggest fallen stars.

A quick knowledge drop for you:

Who is Michael Oberlies?

Michael Oberlies is Sean “Diddy” Combs’ former personal videographer. He released a statement saying he was working on an authorized project about Combs. He claims the Netflix footage was taken by a temporary freelancer without authorization.

What does Diddy’s team say about the documentary?

Combs’ legal team has strongly condemned the Netflix series. They label it a “shameful hit piece” that relies on illegally obtained, stolen footage. They argue it misappropriates material Combs intended for his own story.

How does Netflix respond to the accusations?

Netflix has stated the footage was obtained through legal means. The streaming service denies the project is a hit piece. They confirmed 50 Cent is an executive producer but does not have creative control over the final product.

Where is Sean “Diddy” Combs now?

Sean “Diddy” Combs is currently serving a 50-month federal prison sentence. He was convicted on charges related to transportation for prostitution. His sentencing occurred in October 2025.

Why did 50 Cent get involved in this project?

50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, has said he felt it was important to be vocal. He suggested that not addressing the allegations would send the wrong message about what behavior is tolerated within the hip-hop community.