American rapper Kanye West has apologised for his past antisemitic outbursts, blaming the behaviour on an undiagnosed brain injury suffered more than 20 years ago.
According to the Daily Mail, the artist, now known as Ye, took out a full-page advert in the Monday, January 26, print edition of The Wall Street Journal to address the controversy.
Titled “To Those I’ve Hurt,” the message outlines what West described as a long and devastating health struggle that he says caused him to lose touch with reality. The letter was signed by West and noted as “Paid for by Yeezy,” alongside a contact email for the company’s chief financial officer.
In the advert, West said he sustained a brain injury in a car accident years ago, but claimed it went unnoticed at the time. He alleged that the medical oversight later contributed to his bipolar disorder diagnosis.
He explained that the condition left him detached from his true self and, during manic episodes, pushed him toward what he described as the most destructive symbols, including the swastika.
West recalled that the accident, which broke his jaw and injured the right frontal lobe of his brain, was treated only for visible damage. He said neurological assessments were limited and that the deeper injury was not properly diagnosed until 2023, a delay he believes worsened his mental health.
Describing bipolar disorder as a serious and debilitating illness, West said it is often accompanied by denial, making sufferers believe they are thinking clearly while their judgment deteriorates. He added that the condition can isolate people once they are labelled as unstable, despite its severity.
Reflecting on his actions, the rapper admitted he said and did things he deeply regrets, including hurting people closest to him. He said he became unrecognisable at times and lost touch with reality as the illness went untreated.
West revealed that he experienced a prolonged manic episode in early 2025, which he said caused significant damage to his personal and professional life. He credited his wife, Bianca Censori, with encouraging him to seek professional help after reaching what he described as his lowest point.
Addressing his antisemitic conduct, West said those moments felt disconnected from his true self. He admitted that in his fractured state, he gravitated toward extreme and harmful symbols, including producing merchandise bearing the swastika.
He expressed deep regret for those actions, stating that while his illness does not excuse his behaviour, he is committed to accountability, treatment, and meaningful change. West stressed that he does not identify as a Nazi or antisemite and said he has love for Jewish people.
The rapper also apologised to the Black community, acknowledging their support throughout his career and expressing remorse for letting them down.
West said he has since found stability through medication, therapy, exercise, and healthier living. He added that reading shared experiences on online forums helped him realise he was not alone in dealing with the disorder.
Acknowledging his influence, West said he lost sight of the impact of his words during manic episodes but now feels renewed clarity. He said he is focusing his energy on positive and meaningful creative work, including music, fashion, and design.
The message concluded with West asking for patience and understanding as he continues his recovery, saying he hopes to earn forgiveness rather than seek sympathy.
West’s antisemitic remarks began in late 2022 and triggered widespread backlash. PUNCH reported that the comments led to the collapse of several major partnerships, including deals with Adidas, Balenciaga, and GAP. His bank, JP Morgan, also reportedly cut ties, while his talent agency, Creative Artists Agency, ended its relationship with him.
