Abuse Allegations Surface in New Documentary About Prince

Written by Kathrine Frich

Sep.10 - 2024 2:57 PM CET

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Photo: Shutterstock
Photo: Shutterstock
Another ex-girlfriend recalls how Prince became controlling while they lived together.

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A new documentary on the late music icon Prince has brought forth troubling allegations of emotional and physical abuse.

Assaulting her Friend

According to The New York Times, Digi24 and USA Today, the film, directed by Ezra Edelman, is still unreleased but includes interviews with several of Prince’s former romantic partners, friends, and collaborators.

The documentary, which took almost five years to produce, highlights not only Prince’s immense talent but also his personal struggles and accusations of abusive behavior.

Jill Jones, one of Prince’s former girlfriends, recounts a disturbing incident from 1984 in which the singer allegedly assaulted her friend during a confrontation in a hotel. Jones claims that she was advised not to press charges, as it could have jeopardized her career. Despite the alleged violence, Jones remained with Prince for several more years.

Another ex-girlfriend, Susannah Melvoin, recalls how Prince became controlling while they lived together, checking her phone and discouraging her from leaving the house. These stories are part of a broader picture painted by the documentary, which delves into Prince’s personal life in ways previously unknown to the public.

Tragic Story of Son's Death

The film also includes a candid interview with Prince’s ex-wife, Mayte Garcia, who shares the tragic story of their son’s death.

The couple’s child was born with a rare genetic disorder and passed away shortly after birth. Garcia remembers how Prince gradually distanced himself emotionally in the aftermath of the tragedy, eventually leading to the breakdown of their marriage.

Beyond the allegations, the documentary explores Prince’s own troubled upbringing, including accounts of abuse by his parents.

Prince’s estate has challenged the accuracy of some claims in the documentary, requesting changes before its release. Netflix, which has been linked to the project, has acknowledged the complexities surrounding the film.

Prince died in 2016 from an accidental overdose of fentanyl at the age of 57.