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.
Message us at 0330 123 555 1.
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.
Message us at 0330 123 555 1.
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 26, 2025 • 28min
Prosecutor tells jury it is time for Diddy to face justice
Nada Tawfik, a BBC New York correspondent, provides real-time insights from the Sean Combs trial, discussing the prosecution's portrayal of him as a leader of a criminal enterprise. Shaun Kent, a criminal defense attorney, shares expert legal analysis on the strategies and nuances at play. They explore the prosecution’s compelling allegations of sex trafficking and the psychological manipulation involved. Additionally, they delve into the dynamics of jury deliberations and the significance of impactful closing arguments in high-profile trials.
Jun 24, 2025 • 13min
Diddy thanks judge and says he won’t testify
Sean 'Diddy' Combs has opted not to testify in his trial, thanking the judge for his guidance. The defense's case concluded shockingly fast, in under 30 minutes, as they contested the prosecution's evidence on serious charges like sex trafficking. With cross-examinations revealing inconsistencies in testimonies, the defense argues for a total acquittal. Legal implications surrounding Rule 29 and personal communications take center stage in this high-profile case, leading to anticipation for the forthcoming closing arguments.
Jun 23, 2025 • 11min
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'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
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
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
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
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
‘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
‘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.
