Amazon has taken action to remove a contentious memoir from its platform, as confirmed on October 1, 2024. The book in question, titled "Kim's Lost Words: A journey for justice, from the other side…," purported to narrate the story of an abusive relationship between the late Kim Porter and her former partner, music industry mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs.
The offspring of Porter and Combs vehemently refuted the book's contents, labeling it as entirely fabricated. This denial came after the memoir unexpectedly climbed to bestseller status on Amazon in September 2023.
An Amazon representative stated, "We were informed of a dispute regarding this title and have notified the publisher. The book is currently unavailable for purchase in our store."
The independent publisher behind the controversial work is Todd Christopher Guzze, who operates under the name Chris Todd and describes himself as an "investigative producer, author and journalist." Todd, who employed the pseudonym Jamal T. Millwood for the book's publication, claimed in a September 2023 interview with The Associated Press that he received "a flash drive, documents and tapes" from sources closely connected to Porter and Combs. He asserted that these materials formed the basis of the memoir.
The $22 paperback initially had a quiet launch on Amazon but gained significant traction following Combs' arrest and the subsequent indictment against him. Combs has entered a plea of not guilty to the charges.
It's worth noting that Sean "Diddy" Combs and Kim Porter shared a complex history. Their on-and-off relationship spanned from 1994 to 2007, during which they had three children together: son Christian and twin daughters D'Lila and Jessie. Combs also raised Porter's son Quincy from a previous relationship. Tragically, Porter passed away in 2018 at the age of 47 due to lobar pneumonia.
Combs, a prominent figure in the music industry, founded Bad Boy Records in 1993 and has since won three Grammy Awards and two MTV Video Music Awards. His career has been marked by various business ventures, including clothing lines and vodka brands. He has also been involved in philanthropic efforts, particularly in education initiatives.
The removal of this controversial memoir comes at a time when Combs' legal troubles have thrust him into the spotlight. While the book's content remains disputed, it has reignited discussions about the relationship between Porter and Combs, as well as broader issues within the entertainment industry.
As the situation continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between public figures, media, and the platforms that distribute information. The case also highlights the challenges faced by online retailers in navigating disputes over controversial content.