Bill Maher, during a segment on his HBO show, criticized Cassie Ventura for her continued relationship with Diddy despite alleged abuse. He introduced a ‘new rule’ for the #MeToo movement, suggesting that victims should leave such relationships immediately, and that failure to do so should not be grounds for a successful case.
Maher highlighted text messages between Ventura and Diddy, arguing that these messages of apparent enthusiastic consent weaken Ventura’s claims of abuse. He compared the situation to other high-profile cases, implying that Ventura’s delayed reporting and continued involvement with Diddy differ from those who reported decades later. Maher also suggested a need for an open discussion about the lengths people will go to for fame.
His comments sparked immediate criticism for victim-blaming. He attempted to justify his stance, claiming it wasn't victim-shaming to expect agency from victims, but opponents find this assertion unconvincing and harmful.
The discussion came amidst Diddy's ongoing sex trafficking trial. The revealed text messages between him and Ventura are a crucial part of the legal proceedings.
Maher’s monologue featured CNN's Jake Tapper and Representative Seth Moulton, who appeared uncomfortable with the controversial comments. The segment highlighted the complex and often contentious debates surrounding the #MeToo movement.