In a shocking turn of events, Sean "Diddy" Combs has publicly apologized for physically assaulting his former girlfriend Cassie Ventura in a video that surfaced over the weekend. The video, obtained exclusively by CNN, shows Combs grabbing, shoving, dragging, and kicking Ventura during a heated altercation.

This incident aligns with the allegations made by Ventura in a federal lawsuit filed in November, which has since been settled. Prior to the release of the video, Combs had remained silent on the matter, but the backlash and media scrutiny pushed him to address his actions.

In a video statement posted on Instagram, Combs expressed remorse, acknowledging the gravity of his behavior in the footage. "It's so difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life, but sometimes you got to do that," he said. "I was f**ked up - I hit rock bottom - but I make no excuses. My behavior on that video is inexcusable."

While Combs did not mention Ventura by name, her attorney, Meredith Firetog, criticized his apology as self-centered. She stated, "Combs' most recent statement is more about himself than the many people he has hurt." Firetog went on to question the sincerity of Combs' apology, suggesting that it was only issued after his previous denials were proven false.

Notably, Combs had vehemently denied Ventura's allegations in her November lawsuit, alongside the five other civil suits filed against him. Through his spokesperson and attorney, he had dismissed the claims as lies motivated by financial gain and public notoriety.

Combs, a prominent figure in the music industry, and the founder of the renowned music label Bad Boy, has built a successful career as a rapper, producer, and business mogul. Despite his influential status, the allegations against him have shaken his reputation.

In addition to his apology, Combs revealed that he sought professional help, including therapy and rehab, recognizing the need for personal growth and change. "I'm committed to be a better man each and every day. I'm not asking for forgiveness. I'm truly sorry," he expressed.

The incident described in Ventura's lawsuit occurred in March 2016 at a hotel in Los Angeles. The complaint outlines a violent altercation where Combs allegedly became intoxicated, punched Ventura in the face, and threw glass vases at her as she tried to escape.

Ventura, a singer who was signed to Combs' label, accused him of exerting power and influence over her throughout their professional and romantic relationship, which lasted from 2007 to 2018. The lawsuit was settled soon after it was filed, with the details of the settlement remaining undisclosed.

Since November, Combs has faced five other civil lawsuits accusing him of sexual misconduct and illegal activities. He has consistently denied these allegations, stating his intention to fight for his name, family, and truth.

As legal proceedings continue for the remaining cases, it remains to be seen how Combs' apology and commitment to change will be received by the public and the industry.