The simple rules of a county fair ride collided with the world of celebrity this week, resulting in a public incident for the children of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. Twin sisters D’Lila Star and Jessie James Combs, both 18, were asked to disembark from a rollercoaster at the Orange County Fair before it could begin its circuit, all over a dispute concerning their mobile phones.

According to video footage obtained and reported by the Daily Mail on August 20, 2025, the sisters were seated and awaiting the ride’s start when a fair employee approached them. Shortly after the interaction, the twins were seen stepping off the attraction. Entertainment outlet TMZ, citing its sources, reported that ride staff had instructed the group to stow their phones away three separate times, a standard safety protocol on many moving rides. The girls allegedly failed to comply, leading to their removal. A contrasting source suggested to outlets that the manner of the ride operator was perceived as “rude,” though this did not change the outcome.

The teens were not escorted from the fairgrounds and were reportedly given complimentary tickets to experience a different ride later. The incident comes during a tumultuous period for their father, who in July was found guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution following a high-profile trial in New York. He faces a potential 20-year prison sentence.

What are the standard safety rules for amusement park rides?

The incident highlights the non-negotiable nature of safety protocols at public attractions. Amusement parks and fairs enforce strict rules to prevent accidents, and the prohibition of loose items, especially phones, is among the most common. The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) emphasizes that unsecured objects can become dangerous projectiles during rides, potentially causing serious injury to riders or bystanders. Ride operators are trained to enforce these rules uniformly for the protection of everyone, regardless of a guest’s status. Compliance is not a suggestion but a mandatory condition for participation.

Despite the recent headline, the twins have been focusing on their burgeoning careers. Earlier this year, they celebrated their high school graduation and announced they were deferring college to launch their own fashion label, 12TWINTY1. In heartfelt posts on Instagram, they explained the deeply personal meaning behind the brand’s name, derived from their December 21 birthday, and its connection to their unique twin bond.

The incident, while minor, underscores a universal truth: safety protocols are designed for everyone’s protection and are enforced without exception. For D’Lila Star and Jessie James Combs, a day at the fair became a public lesson in adhering to rules that prioritize well-being over convenience, a principle that applies equally to celebrities and everyday visitors alike.