“What Sean Combs is being accused of is not rare. He’s not an anomaly.”
Elisabeth Ovesen, formerly known as Karrine Steffans, recounts her experiences as a hip-hop video star in the early noughties. In her book, Confessions Of A Video Vixen, she details her relationships and encounters with rappers, music stars, and executives. She sheds light on the misogyny and power imbalances prevalent in the industry.
In light of the #MeToo movement and the recent charges against Sean “Diddy” Combs, Ovesen wants to highlight that similar behavior and crimes are happening among others in the industry.
She explains how men with money and power perpetuate such behavior, not just Combs. Ovesen discusses the prevalence of misogyny, abuse, and drug use in the industry, affecting women, men, and under-age individuals.
Ovesen also reveals the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and payments to cover up wrongdoing. She mentions witnessing parties where abuse and mistreatment occurred, emphasizing the secrecy and manipulation prevalent in the industry.
Despite facing backlash for her book, Ovesen stands by her truth and aims to educate the new generation about supporting women and believing their stories.
Combs faces serious allegations of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, which he denies. The industry also faces scrutiny with allegations against other prominent figures such as Jay-Z, who has denied accusations of rape alongside Combs.