Ye says he ‘lost touch with reality’ in apology for antisemitic statements

American rapper and record producer Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, has publicly apologized for antisemitism after years of controversy and backlash.

The apology appeared in a full-page advertisement published in The Wall Street Journal, where Ye acknowledged responsibility for his past statements and behavior.

In the ad, Ye wrote that he had “lost touch with reality,” linking his actions to an undiagnosed brain injury and untreated bipolar disorder. He said these conditions contributed to a period of erratic behavior, but emphasized that they do not excuse what he said or did.

“I regret and am deeply mortified by my actions,” Ye wrote, adding that he is committed to accountability, treatment, and meaningful change.

Ye also addressed past expressions of admiration for Adolf Hitler and the use of swastika imagery, explicitly stating, “I am not a Nazi or an antisemite. I love Jewish people.” He described experiencing a prolonged manic episode in early 2025 that he said “destroyed” his life and led him to hit what he described as rock bottom.

The Anti-Defamation League responded by calling the apology long overdue and cautioning that it does not erase the harm caused by years of antisemitic rhetoric.

The organization said the most meaningful apology would be a commitment to avoiding such behavior in the future.

The apology comes as Ye prepares for the release of a new album, adding further public attention to the moment.