At a Glance
- Ye publicly apologized for antisemitic remarks, citing an undiagnosed brain injury and mental health issues.
- He announced a new album release and a commitment to therapy and medication.
- The apology follows a history of controversial statements and corporate severance.
Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, issued a public apology on Monday for a series of antisemitic and racist remarks that had sparked widespread backlash. In a full-page advertisement in The Wall Street Journal, he acknowledged past behavior, blamed an undiagnosed brain injury, and outlined steps toward accountability.
Background
In February 2024, Ye posted on X that he was a Nazi and praised Adolf Hitler, a statement that drew immediate condemnation. The following month, he posted a swastika image inside a Star of David, leading to his suspension from several platforms and the severing of ties by major brands.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reported that, in early 2023, it had documented at least 30 antisemitic incidents nationwide that directly referenced Ye. The ADL did not respond to a request for comment on Ye’s apology.
Brain Injury and Mental Health
Ye wrote that the right frontal lobe of his brain was injured in a car accident 25 years ago. He stated:
> “It wasn’t properly diagnosed until 2023. The medical oversight caused serious damage to my mental health and led to my bipolar type-1 diagnosis.”
He added that the injury made him:
> “I lost touch with reality,” and that he became “detached from my true self.”
During a four-month period in early 2025, Ye experienced a manic episode described as “psychotic, paranoid, and impulsive.” He said he hit “rock bottom a few months ago” and, with encouragement from his wife Bianca Censori, sought help.
The Apology
In the advertisement titled “To Those I’ve Hurt,” Ye stated:
> “I am not a Nazi or an antisemite. I love Jewish people. I regret and am deeply mortified by my actions in that state, and am committed to accountability, treatment, and meaningful change.”
He further explained:
> “In that fractured state, I gravitated towards the most destructive symbol I could find, the swastika, and even sold t-shirts bearing it.”
Ye concluded:
> “I’m not asking for sympathy, or a free pass, though I aspire to earn your forgiveness. I write today to simply ask for your patience and understanding as I find my way home.”
Corporate Fallout
Following the February tirade, several corporations severed ties with Ye. The sportswear brand Adidas, which had previously sold his Yeezy sneakers, ended its partnership. Other entertainment firms also distanced themselves.
Previous Apologies
Ye has apologized before. In December 2023, he posted on Instagram in Hebrew:
> “It was not my intention to offend or demean, and I deeply regret any pain I may have caused.”
However, his February X post contradicted this sentiment, stating:
> “I’m never apologizing for my Jewish comments.”
Current Plans
Ye is slated to release a new album on Friday. He emphasized that the apology is part of a broader effort to regain trust and rebuild his career.
Key Takeaways
- Ye’s apology centers on an undiagnosed brain injury and subsequent mental health challenges.
- The ADL has documented numerous incidents linked to Ye’s remarks.
- Major brands have cut ties, and Ye has announced a new album release.
- The apology includes a call for patience and a promise of continued treatment.
Why it matters: Ye’s public admission of medical and mental health issues may influence how the public and industry stakeholders view his future actions and accountability.
