Kanye West issues apology for ‘manic behavior’ citing brain trauma and bipolar disorder

Kanye West publicly apologized for years of antisemitic remarks, attributing his actions to untreated bipolar disorder and a past brain injury while acknowledging the harm caused.

Kanye West, a.k.a. Ye, has issued a public apology for what he described as years of “manic behavior,” acknowledging the harm caused by his antisemitic remarks and actions. The statement appeared as a full-page advertisement in The Wall Street Journal.

In the letter, West said his behavior was influenced by untreated bipolar disorder and a traumatic brain injury stemming from a 2002 car accident. He wrote that neurological damage from the crash went undiagnosed for years, later contributing to a bipolar type-1 diagnosis and prolonged manic episodes.

West directly addressed the Jewish community, stating that he is not a Nazi or an antisemite and expressing regret for invoking Nazi imagery and rhetoric in the past. He also acknowledged admiration he previously expressed for Adolf Hitler and said those actions occurred during periods when he had “lost touch with reality”.

Civil rights organizations responded cautiously. The Anti-Defamation League described the apology as overdue, emphasizing that words alone do not erase years of harmful conduct and urging West to demonstrate accountability through sustained change, as cited by multiple outlets.

The letter also included an apology to the Black community, which West described as foundational to his identity, and reflections on the personal toll of his mental health struggles. He said a four-month manic episode in early 2025 led to impulsive and destructive behavior, leaving lasting personal and professional consequences.

West said he is now receiving treatment and following a regimen that includes medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. While he asked for patience rather than forgiveness, the apology arrives as he prepares to release new music, including his upcoming album Bully, adding further scrutiny to his efforts at rehabilitation.

About The Author

Ashley

I’ve been a part of the dance music scene for nearly a decade and with Exron for more than half of that time. My first event was Diplo’s Mad Decent but these days you’ll find me at Club Space or the Brooklyn Mirage. Some of my top artists are G Jones, Tipper, Of The Trees, and CharlestheFirst. My favorite genres are techno, experimental bass, and ambient but I’ll get down to anything with a beat!

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