Fame Under Fire
BBC Sounds
Celebrities, athletes, politicians, influencers and even royalty can all land in the firing line.Why does it matter? Because we invest in them.We give them space in our homes, our budgets, our feeds, and sometimes, our hearts.
We put them on pedestals. So when they fall, we want the truth.
But in an age of AI-generated "evidence", misinformation, and unqualified newsfluencers, separating fact from fiction is a full-time job.
Hot on the heels of covering the Diddy trial, Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty is up for the challenge.
Each week on Fame Under Fire, she'll take a detailed look at the topics dominating the headlines. With the help of expert guests, she'll myth bust, debunk, pre-bunk, fact check and get to the truth behind the timeline.
Got questions? We've got answers.
Subscribe to Fame Under Fire on BBC Sounds and turn on push notifications so you never miss an episode. We'll let you know as soon as new episodes are available.
We put them on pedestals. So when they fall, we want the truth.
But in an age of AI-generated "evidence", misinformation, and unqualified newsfluencers, separating fact from fiction is a full-time job.
Hot on the heels of covering the Diddy trial, Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty is up for the challenge.
Each week on Fame Under Fire, she'll take a detailed look at the topics dominating the headlines. With the help of expert guests, she'll myth bust, debunk, pre-bunk, fact check and get to the truth behind the timeline.
Got questions? We've got answers.
Subscribe to Fame Under Fire on BBC Sounds and turn on push notifications so you never miss an episode. We'll let you know as soon as new episodes are available.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 23, 2025 • 11min
Diddy on Trial - Silence in court as jurors view explicit videos
Jurors are captivated as explicit videos and text messages take center stage in a high-profile trial. Tensions rise with defense claims of consensual relationships, challenging the prosecution's narrative. Courtroom dynamics reveal intricate relationships, where emojis and flirtatious conversations add intrigue. Testimonies uncover a web of coordination and consent, leaving listeners questioning the blurred lines of agency. As the trial unfolds, the drama intensifies, spotlighting the complexities of personal interactions amidst serious allegations.
Jun 20, 2025 • 12min
Diddy on Trial - Diddy's former assistant Brendan Paul takes the stand
Isabella Gomez Sarmiento, an NPR music reporter, discusses the ongoing trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs. Brendan Paul, Diddy's former assistant, reveals he worked 80-100 hours a week and feels 'complicated' about his loyalty. Insightful testimonies uncover drug use narratives and Brendan's pivotal moment of taking responsibility for drugs on a trip. A Homeland Security agent provides critical evidence tying into claims of coercion and abuse, painting a troubling picture of Diddy's world.
Jun 18, 2025 • 24min
Diddy on Trial - What’s going on with Diddy’s trial as judge cancels court day?
Nada Tawfik, BBC's New York correspondent, shares the latest updates on the Diddy trial, including surprising courtroom delays and juror dynamics. Criminal defense attorney Shaun Kent offers expert insights into the potential legal ramifications from juror dismissals and text messages revealing intricate relationships. They discuss how these developments may affect the trial timeline and delve into the complexities of judicial discretion in high-profile cases, leaving listeners eager for the next steps in this escalating saga.
Jun 17, 2025 • 9min
Diddy on Trial - Judge reprimands lawyers after information leak
In this discussion, Katrina Kaufman, a law and politics reporter from CBS, delves into the courtroom chaos following a serious leak of confidential information. Judge Subramanian reprimands both prosecution and defense lawyers, highlighting the vital need for confidentiality. The conversation also unpacks the nuances of the ongoing trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs, focusing on revealing text messages and the tumultuous relationship with Cassie Ventura. As evidence unfolds, tensions rise around juror confidentiality and the trial's integrity.
Jun 16, 2025 • 9min
Diddy on Trial - Juror sent home, plus texts shown between Diddy and Kristina Khorram
A juror has been dismissed from the trial, raising eyebrows as a replacement steps in. Text messages exchanged between Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs and his former chief of staff reveal potential awareness of misconduct. The complex and contentious relationship between Diddy and Kristina Khorram is examined, shedding light on the emotional tension amidst legal battles. This week also uncovers key testimonies and sealed evidence, contributing to the high-stakes atmosphere as the prosecution's case unfolds.
Jun 13, 2025 • 9min
Diddy on Trial - Kanye West surprise visit and judge considers dismissing juror
Isabella Gomez-Sarmiento, a music reporter for NPR, joins the discussion as Kanye West surprises everyone with a courthouse visit to support Diddy. They dive into the courtroom dynamics, highlighting the tension surrounding a juror's potential dismissal due to inconsistent statements. Jonathan Perez, Diddy’s former assistant, shares intriguing insights about his experiences and interactions with Diddy’s ex-girlfriend, Jane. The conversation also explores the importance of juror diversity in this high-profile trial and how it could influence the verdict.
Jun 13, 2025 • 26min
Diddy on Trial - ‘Jane’ tells court of sex night with different famous rapper
Nada Tawfik, BBC's New York correspondent, and Shaun Kent, a criminal defense attorney, dive deep into the shocking revelations at Sean 'Diddy' Combs' trial. They discuss Jane's dramatic testimony, including her claims of sexual encounters with another famous rapper. The guests analyze the tense courtroom dynamics, the defense's strategies, and the implications of legal immunity in such high-stakes cases. Their insights shed light on the complexities of consent, power, and the emotional turmoil experienced by those involved in the trial.
Jun 11, 2025 • 11min
Diddy on Trial - ‘Jane’ questioned about sex drugs and underwear she ordered for ‘hotel nights’
Isabella Gomez-Sarmiento, an NPR music reporter, dives into the courtroom drama surrounding Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs. She discusses the cross-examination of ‘Jane,’ revealing her complex relationship dynamics, including planning romantic ‘hotel nights’ with Diddy. The conversation touches on emotional manipulation and jealousy within their relationship, juxtaposed with Jane's struggles between material desires and emotional needs. Intriguing insights also emerge about juror controversies and the broader implications for the trial.
Jun 10, 2025 • 12min
Diddy on Trial - Diddy’s ex tells court she ‘enjoyed taking care of him’
Isabella Gomez-Sarmiento, a music reporter for NPR, discusses the riveting courtroom testimony of a woman identified as ‘Jane,’ who shares her complex relationship with Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs. She reveals intimate details about caring for him and the emotional turmoil of their encounters. The conversation covers themes of affection versus discomfort, jealousy, and the dynamics of non-monogamous relationships. Listeners are drawn into the emotional and legal intricacies of a high-profile case that raises important questions about consent and control.
Jun 10, 2025 • 11min
Diddy on Trial - Diddy’s ex: 'I wanted to stop having sex with other men'
Jericka Duncan, a CBS national news correspondent, joins the conversation to provide live updates from the trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs. She shares insights on a pivotal witness's dramatic testimony, revealing a history of manipulation and physical violence in their relationship. The guest discusses the emotional turmoil faced by the witness, including struggles with PTSD and coercion. As the tension mounts, listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for crucial cross-examination developments and ongoing trial updates.
