The Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, often described as a “hellhole” for its grim conditions, has an unexpected duo forming their own unlikely camaraderie. Sam Bankman-Fried, once the face of cryptocurrency innovation with his now-defunct FTX empire, opened up about his experiences in jail—including his surprising bond with music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs.
An Unlikely Connection
Speaking to Tucker Carlson on his 33rd birthday, Bankman-Fried shed light on life inside one of New York City’s most notorious detention centers. Among the chaos and monotony, he revealed that Diddy, despite his own “soul-crushing” ordeal, is a surprisingly kind presence in the unit. “He’s been kind to people in the unit,” Bankman-Fried shared, going on to describe the musician’s demeanor as courteous and composed amid a depressing environment.
Although their budding jail chats appear friendly, Bankman-Fried acknowledged that he has only seen “one piece” of Diddy during their shared days behind bars. “It’s a position no one wants to be in,” he said, adding both he and Diddy likely never imagined they’d cross paths in such circumstances.
From Millions to Muffins
Inside the Metropolitan Detention Center, the lifestyle contrasts drastically from the luxury both men once enjoyed. The currency of the inmates? Muffins, ramen noodles, and “disgusting” sardines, according to Bankman-Fried. Gone are the millions of dollars and the opulence that once defined their lives.
Bankman-Fried also reflected on the psychological toll of incarceration, describing how prison warps the perception of time and breeds boredom. With no meaningful projects to engage in, he spends his days playing chess against other inmates, including alleged armed robbers with remarkable skill at the game. Surprisingly, he frequently finds himself losing. “I’m not saying they’re grandmasters, but I lose games to them all the time,” he noted with a laugh.
A Shared Plight
Though brief, the interview painted a vivid picture of life at MDC Brooklyn for two high-profile inmates. Diddy, once celebrated for his influence in music and business, now finds himself in the same bleak setting as a fallen cryptocurrency titan. Both seem to be doing their best to endure under conditions far removed from the privilege they once knew.
Carlson, in an unusually sympathetic tone, expressed his disdain for incarceration in general, calling the situation “soul-crushing” and adding, “I feel sorry for every man in prison.” He even encouraged Bankman-Fried to “give our best to Diddy” during their next interaction.
The Melancholy of Disgrace
While the circumstances are grim, Bankman-Fried’s reflections offer a rare window into the shared humanity of individuals brought together by unexpected circumstances. Whether it’s muffins traded for goodwill or games of chess breaking language barriers, life inside is a stark reminder of how deeply disconnected it is from the outside world.
For now, these tales from MDC Brooklyn leave a haunting impression, exposing the human side of two men who have fallen far from their once-lofty positions in the public eye. Only time will tell what lies ahead for Diddy and Bankman-Fried, but their shared existence in a “hellhole” prison marks a curious and sobering twist in their stories.
