The Unbelievable Age Of Diddy's Mother, Janice Combs: A Full Biography And Her Role As Hip-Hop's Matriarch

The question of "How old is P Diddy's mother?" is one that frequently pops up, a testament to the enduring public curiosity surrounding the family of one of hip-hop’s biggest moguls. As of today, December 10, 2025, Sean "Diddy" Combs' mother, the elegant and formidable Janice Combs, is an impressive 84 years old.

Janice Combs, born in 1940, has consistently remained a pillar of strength and a figure of grace in her son's life, from his early days as a young entrepreneur to his current status as a global icon. Her age is a striking detail in her story, reflecting a life that has spanned decades of cultural change and personal challenges. This deep dive explores the full biography of the woman who raised the legendary Diddy, providing the most current and updated information available.

Janice Combs: Full Biographical Profile and Current Age

Janice Combs is far more than just "Diddy's mother." She is a matriarch who navigated the challenges of single parenthood and tragedy to raise a music and business powerhouse. Her life story is one of resilience, style, and unwavering support.

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• Full Name: Janice Combs (née Smalls)
• Current Age (as of December 10, 2025): 84 years old
• Date of Birth: December 21, 1940
• Upcoming Birthday: She will turn 85 on December 21, 2025
• Place of Birth: Mount Vernon, New York, USA
• Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
• Nationality: American
• Ethnicity: African-American
• Parents: Information not widely publicised
• Marital Status: Widowed
• Spouse: Melvin Earl Combs (deceased)
• Children: Sean "Diddy" Combs (Son), Keisha Combs (Daughter, from a prior relationship of Melvin Combs, but often included in the family circle)
• Grandchildren: Justin Combs, King Combs (Christian), Chance Combs, Jessie James Combs, D’Lila Star Combs, and Love Combs.
• Former Occupations: Former Model, Alleged Teacher's Assistant
• Current Residence: New York
• Known For: Mother of Sean "Diddy" Combs, her elegant fashion sense (often seen in white furs and platinum), and her role as a guiding figure in the Combs family.

The Defining Years: Raising a Mogul After Tragedy

Janice Combs’ most defining life chapter began with an unimaginable tragedy. Her late husband, Melvin Earl Combs, was murdered in 1978 when Diddy was just three years old. Melvin was 33 at the time and had ties to drug dealing, a reality that deeply impacted the family's early life.

The Burden of Single Motherhood in Mount Vernon

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Following Melvin's death, Janice took on the immense responsibility of raising Sean as a single mother. She moved the family from Harlem to the more affluent suburb of Mount Vernon, New York, a decision she made to give her son a better, safer environment and access to superior education.

Her work ethic was crucial during this period. While sources indicate she was a former model, she also reportedly worked as a teacher's assistant. This dual-career approach highlighted her commitment to providing for her family and instilling a strong sense of discipline and ambition in young Sean.

Instilling the Entrepreneurial Spirit

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Many credit Janice Combs with being the first person to recognize and foster Diddy's inherent entrepreneurial drive. She demanded excellence and focus, pushing him towards his studies and away from the streets. This early influence is often cited as the foundation for Diddy's later success in the music industry with Bad Boy Records and his various business ventures, including Sean John. Her emphasis on education and ambition was the blueprint for the mogul he would become.

Janice Combs in the Spotlight: Her Recent Public Role

Despite her son's global fame, Janice Combs has largely maintained a private life, only stepping into the public eye for major family events or to show support for Diddy. However, in recent years, her presence has become more visible, especially amid the legal and public scrutiny surrounding Sean Combs.

The Matriarch’s Unwavering Support

Janice Combs has been a constant presence during some of the most challenging periods of her son’s career. Her public appearances, particularly during times of legal drama, serve as a powerful visual reminder of the family's solidarity. She has been noted for her distinctive and decadent fashion sense—often seen in luxurious white furs and platinum accessories—even when attending court-related events, projecting an image of strength and dignity.

The $1 Million Birthday Gift and Generosity

The close bond between mother and son is often highlighted by Diddy's extravagant displays of gratitude. On her 80th birthday in December 2020, Diddy famously gifted her $1 million and a brand-new Bentley, a gesture that went viral and underscored the depth of his appreciation for her sacrifices. These gifts are symbolic of the financial stability and luxury she helped him achieve, a stark contrast to their humble beginnings in Mount Vernon.

Her Relationship with the Grandchildren

Janice is a devoted grandmother to Diddy's six children: Justin, King (Christian), Chance, Jessie James, D’Lila Star, and the youngest, Love Combs. She often appears in family photos and at major milestones, ensuring the next generation understands the importance of family heritage and legacy. Her role as a hip-hop matriarch extends to guiding and supporting her talented grandchildren, many of whom are following in their father’s footsteps in music and fashion.

The Enduring Legacy of Janice Combs

At 84 years old, Janice Combs’ life is a testament to the power of a mother's influence. She is a vital entity in the narrative of Sean "Diddy" Combs, representing the foundation of his success. The story of Diddy is incomplete without acknowledging the grit, sacrifice, and ambition of Janice Combs (née Smalls).

Her continued presence in the public sphere, especially during periods of high-profile controversy, solidifies her image as the unwavering anchor of the Combs family. Janice Combs is not just a former model or a teacher's assistant; she is the resilient matriarch who shaped one of the most influential figures in modern music and culture, a legacy that continues to grow as she approaches her 85th birthday.

The curiosity about her age reflects a deeper interest in the woman who survived tragedy and economic hardship to raise a billionaire. Her longevity and enduring style make her a figure of admiration, proving that behind every successful mogul is often a strong, determined mother.