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Sean "Diddy" Combs, once known for his sharp style and youthful persona, appeared visibly changed as his federal sex-trafficking trial began in Manhattan.
The 55-year-old music mogul has been held without bail since September 2024, and his gray hair and beard, first seen publicly in courtroom sketches, now drew real-time reactions from jurors and observers alike.
Why Diddy's gray hair may sway the jury
The transformation has prompted legal experts to weigh in on how Combs' altered appearance could affect perceptions during trial.
His subdued courtroom look, gray hair, loose-fitting clothes, and a navy sweater, contrasts sharply with the image he cultivated as a flashy entertainment icon.
While such a shift is partly due to jail conditions, where cosmetic products like hair dye are prohibited, some believe it could subtly benefit his defense.
"The hope is that, given the lascivious nature of some of the alleged acts he participated in, the jury sees a more seasoned and grown-up version of his former self,'' jury consultant Alan Tuerkheimer told Us Weekly.
Criminal-defense attorney Joshua Ritter echoed that sentiment, noting that perception can influence subconscious judgments.
"If you're looking over at someone who appears gray-gray hair, gray beard, dressed in kind of a sweater and doesn't look like the kind of person that would commit the sorts of atrocities that are going to be alleged-that might play at least a subconscious role in their heads,"Ritter said.
Former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani pointed out the physical toll trials and incarceration can have, especially on high-profile defendants.
"Prison can be very different for them. It ages them, and it ages them quickly," he explained to NewsNation.
"It can affect your physical and mental health."
Combs has pleaded not guilty to charges including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking by force or coercion.
Prosecutors allege that Combs orchestrated disturbing acts at his parties, some of which involved his ex-girlfriend Cassandra "Cassie" Ventura, who is expected to testify.
His lawyer, Teny Geragos, has positioned the defense around separating Combs' controversial lifestyle from criminal behavior.
"You might hear about kinky sex, which may make you uncomfortable... but you are here to judge whether the government actually proved what they charged him with," she told jurors.
The trial is expected to last up to 10 weeks, with Combs facing the possibility of life in prison if convicted.