Phil Pines served as the executive assistant to Sean "Diddy" Combs from 2019 to 2021, a period he initially viewed as a dream opportunity within the music industry. However, he has since recounted the darker aspects of Combs’ lifestyle in an interview with Nine’s Christine Ahern on 60 Minutes. Pines described his role as including the constant supply of drugs like marijuana and mushrooms, aptly referred to as a “Diddy pack,” underscoring the troubling demands of the job.
Despite Combs’ outward charisma, wealth, and influence, Pines revealed a disturbing existence filled with drug use and violent outbursts. His responsibilities evolved from typical assistant tasks to more unsettling roles, including preparing for Combs’ notorious "wild king nights", which involved setting up hotel rooms with an array of substances and paraphernalia. Although he did not witness the parties directly, he was privy to their activities due to the necessity of deleting compromising videos from Combs’ devices. Pines reflected on the pervasive nature of Combs’ addictions, which he noted were not merely occasional indulgences but rather a daily reality.
Additionally, Pines often found himself in the unpleasant position of cleaning up after these raucous gatherings, a task he described as both disgusting and dehumanising. His experience peaked with witnessing and being coerced into compromising situations himself, including a harrowing encounter where Combs pressured him into a sexual act while reminding him to prove his loyalty.
Pines shared alarming experiences of violence, recounting an incident where he witnessed Combs’ aggressive behaviour towards women, emphasising the fear that enveloped him throughout his tenure. Video evidence of Diddy assaulting his then-partner, Cassie Ventura, emerged during this period, reflecting the serious nature of his actions, which left Pines feeling powerless and trapped.
Now attempting to move beyond the psychological toll of his experiences, Pines is committed to advocating for mental health awareness, aiming to support others who have suffered abuse. He desires to share his story as a means of empowerment and recovery, insisting that speaking out is vital. As Combs stands trial facing charges related to sex trafficking and other serious allegations, Pines believes accountability is essential, expressing hope that justice will ultimately prevail for all victims.
In his pursuit of healing and helping others, Pines encourages survivors to seek assistance, marking a significant step towards recovery from the darkness he once faced while working for Combs.