Hip-hop artist and producer Kanye West, now legally known as Ye, has issued a public apology for his past antisemitic remarks and actions by taking out a full-page advertisement in The Wall Street Journal. Titled “To Those I’ve Hurt,” the letter marks one of Ye’s most detailed acknowledgements of the controversy that surrounded him in recent years and led to widespread backlash.
Kanye West reacted to his behaviour post the diagnosis
In the statement, Ye reflected on his mental health struggles, linking much of his behaviour to an untreated brain injury and bipolar disorder. He revealed that injuries sustained during a car accident in 2002 affected his frontal lobe and contributed to long-term psychological issues. “I lost touch with reality,” he wrote, admitting that ignoring his condition for years worsened the situation. He added that he was only properly diagnosed in 2023.
Addressing the offensive imagery and statements that shocked the public, Ye expressed deep remorse. “During manic episodes, I gravitated toward the most destructive symbol I could find,” he said, referring to the use of Nazi symbolism. Calling his actions reckless and harmful, he stated, “I regret and am deeply mortified by my behaviour during that time.” He firmly denied holding hateful beliefs, adding, “I am not a Nazi or an antisemite. I love Jewish people.”
Kanye West apologised to the community
Ye also apologised to the Black community, acknowledging that some of his comments were hurtful and damaging. “You are the foundation of who I am, and I am so sorry to have let you down,” he wrote. “I love us, and I take responsibility for the pain I caused.”
The artist described a particularly severe manic episode in early 2025, which he said “destroyed” parts of his life and pushed him to a breaking point. He shared that he has since begun consistent treatment, including medication, therapy, physical exercise and lifestyle changes. Ye credited his wife, Bianca Censori, for supporting him and urging him to seek help.
Concluding the letter, Ye stressed that he was not seeking forgiveness without accountability. “I’m not asking for a free pass,” he wrote. “I simply ask for patience and understanding as I work toward healing and becoming better.”
While the apology has drawn mixed reactions, many are closely watching whether Ye’s future actions reflect the accountability and growth he now claims to embrace.
