In a twist worthy of a reality TV reunion special, Sean "Diddy" Combs recently returned New York’s Key to the City after Mayor Eric Adams politely, yet firmly, asked for it back. The tale began when a video emerged showing Combs physically assaulting his ex-girlfriend Cassie in a hotel hallway back in 2016, a scene unfortunately matching a description in a federal lawsuit (NBC, CNN).

Mayor Adams, expressing his deep disturbance in a heartfelt letter to Combs, condemned the actions as unbecoming of anyone worthy of holding such a symbolic honor (NBC, CNN). It’s as if the City of New York decided that assault in hotel hallways was not the kind of tourism they wanted to promote.

The Key to the City of New York committee swiftly moved to recommend nullifying and rescinding the key (CNN). It’s their way of saying, “Thanks, but no thanks,” ensuring that the symbolic object returns to safer hands, or at least less controversial ones.

In an act of compliance (or perhaps relieved he no longer had to keep track of another key), Combs returned the key on June 16, 2024 (CNN). Only a short while ago, in September 2023, Mayor Adams had awarded the key to Combs in a ceremony likely filled with more smiles and fewer lawsuits (NBC, CNN).

Adding fuel to the tabloid fire, Combs has been named in numerous civil lawsuits since last November, accusing him of various unsavory actions, including sexual assault (NBC, CNN). Not to be outdone by the allegations, Combs has categorically denied all charges and even issued a public apology for the unfortunate hotel incident, as if hoping a well-timed “sorry” might smooth over an indelible stain (NBC, CNN).

Not even Combs’ luxurious properties were safe from scrutiny; federal investigators searched his homes in March, uncovering an arsenal of firearms (NBC). Now it seems they’re preparing to bring accusers before a federal grand jury, suggesting that Diddy could be hitting some new legal lows (CNN).

While this saga is far from over, one thing remains clear: Even symbolic keys have standards. As the drama continues to unfold, Eric Adams might be left wondering if there’s a spare key lying around that he forgot to ask for back. After all, in the world of celebrity mishaps, it’s always good to have a backup plan.

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