Kanye West has spoken about the controversial outbursts that damaged his reputation and caused deep offence, particularly within the Jewish community.
Since 2020, the rapper’s behaviour has drawn heavy criticism and left many viewing him as a pariah in the music industry. In recent months, however, there have been signs of a shift. He has stayed away from inflammatory social media posts and has focused more on making music.
His latest apology to the Jewish community is part of what he describes as an effort to make amends. West says this change in direction came after his wife, Bianca Censori, urged him to seek help for his mental health struggles.
In a full-page advert published in The Wall Street Journal, the Grammy winner wrote, “I am not a Nazi or an antisemite. I love Jewish people.”
West also linked his past behaviour to a brain injury he suffered in a serious car crash in 2002. He said the injury was not properly diagnosed until 2023 and claimed this medical oversight contributed to his bipolar type-1 diagnosis and long-term mental health problems.
Reflecting on his actions, he added, “I regret and am deeply mortified by my actions in that state, and am committed to accountability, treatment, and meaningful change.”
This is not the first time West has apologised for antisemitic remarks. In the past, similar statements were followed by further offensive comments. Whether this latest apology marks a lasting change remains to be seen.
