Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, made an unexpected appearance at Sean "Diddy" Combs' ongoing trial on Friday (June 13), showing public support for the music mogul as he faces serious federal charges. Wearing an all-white outfit, Ye arrived at the Manhattan federal courthouse in a Maybach and entered through a public entrance. He nodded in response when asked by a reporter if he was there to support Combs, then left roughly 35 minutes later.

Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to charges including trafficking, conspiracy under racketeering laws, and illegal transportation of individuals. He has been in custody at a Brooklyn facility since his arrest in September and could face life in prison if convicted. Ye's court appearance comes despite recent controversies of his own, including public backlash over his past remarks, which led to several brands, including Adidas, ending their partnerships with him.

One of Friday’s key witnesses was Jonathan Perez, who previously worked as Combs' personal assistant for three years. Testifying for the prosecution, Perez said he was tasked with coordinating private events for Combs, which other witnesses have described with various informal labels. Perez also testified that he regularly packed a Gucci pouch for Combs containing controlled substances like cocaine and Adderall when Combs traveled. During cross-examination by defense attorney Brian Steel, Perez stated that he didn’t believe a former partner of Combs—who testified under the name “Jane” and spoke about mistreatment—was ever unwilling during those events.

Earlier in the day, a Homeland Security agent described items discovered in a March 2024 search of Combs' Los Angeles residence, including firearms. Later, after the jury was dismissed, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian said he plans to replace one of the jurors due to conflicting information about his home address, raising doubts about his honesty and ability to follow court instructions. Combs' legal team expressed concern about this decision, and further discussions are ongoing.

Additionally, prosecutor Maurene Comey renewed concerns—first raised last week—about Combs nodding noticeably during favorable testimony, potentially influencing jurors. The defense argued his behavior was not improper. The judge acknowledged the concern but said such reactions are difficult to prevent entirely. The prosecution will continue presenting its case next week, after which the defense will begin its response. Known previously as Puff Daddy and P. Diddy, Combs is a key figure in the rise of hip-hop culture and helped launch the careers of major artists like Notorious B.I.G. and Usher.