Kanye West has said he keeps a personal “checklist” of harmful things he said during manic episodes, following a public apology for past antisemitic remarks. The rapper, who now goes by Ye, spoke about the list in a new interview after publishing a full-page apology in The Wall Street Journal.
In the apology, Kanye said his behavior was linked to bipolar disorder caused by a brain injury from a car crash 25 years ago. He said damage to his right frontal lobe went undiagnosed until 2023 and contributed to episodes where he lost touch with reality.
Kanye said his antisemitic actions, including selling shirts with swastikas and releasing a song titled “Heil Hitler,” came during manic periods. He said he gravitated toward extreme symbols while mentally unwell and stressed that he is not a Nazi or an antisemite.
Speaking to Vanity Fair, Kanye said he now reviews what he said during those episodes each day. He said the comments damaged his family life, friendships and professional relationships, adding that the fallout has followed him for the past several years.
He also rejected claims that the apology was a publicity move to promote his upcoming album, Bully. West said the apology was driven by guilt and remorse, not commercial interests, and that he felt a responsibility to address the harm he caused.
Kanye ended by apologizing again to Jewish and Black communities, saying he is committed to treatment and long-term change. He said his illness does not excuse his actions but believes accountability is necessary as he works to rebuild trust.
