Netflix defends Ted Sarandos over Sean Combs docuseries amid legal threats and controversy

Netflix responds to Sean Combs’ claims against 'The Reckoning' docuseries, calling it legally obtained and fair

Netflix has responded to legal threats from Sean Combs following the release of the docuseries Sean Combs: The Reckoning, executive produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson.

The series debuted on December 2 and explores Combs’ legal troubles and business controversies. Combs’ attorneys sent a cease-and-desist letter to Netflix alleging the series is a “corporate retaliation” against the Grammy-winning artist and accusing the production of using pre-arrest footage without consent.

A Netflix spokesperson denied the allegations, telling Deadline, “The claims being made about Sean Combs: The Reckoning are false.” The company emphasised that the project had “no ties to any past conversations between Sean Combs and Netflix” and that footage of Combs leading up to his indictment was “legally obtained.”

Netflix added that “this is not a hit piece or an act of retribution,” noting that while 50 Cent serves as executive producer, he does not have creative control and no participants were paid to portray Combs negatively.

Combs’ legal team claims Netflix and Sarandos turned to 50 Cent to produce the docuseries after Combs rejected an earlier proposal that would have required him to relinquish creative control.

The letter alleges the project includes “false and defamatory statements” and intimate details obtained in violation of privacy rights and non-disclosure agreements.

Director Alexandria Stapleton confirmed to Deadline that all footage was legally acquired and rights were secured. Combs’ representatives stated they are reviewing legal options after viewing the series.

Sean Combs: The Reckoning is currently a four-part series, with its performance on Netflix’s domestic Top 10 expected to be revealed shortly.

International ratings and any subsequent legal developments remain pending as Combs continues to face multiple civil suits.