American rapper and record producer Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, has issued a public apology for his antisemitic remarks through a full-page advertisement in the Wall Street Journal. The controversial artist attributed his past behavior to untreated bipolar disorder and an undiagnosed brain injury, revealing he has now sought treatment for his mental health condition.
Public Apology and Mental Health Revelation
In his detailed public statement, Ye expressed deep regret for his antisemitic rants that have drawn significant backlash over the years. "I lost touch with reality," the rapper wrote in the advertisement, explaining that manic episodes from his bipolar disorder significantly influenced his controversial behavior. He emphasized that his condition doesn't excuse his actions but provides context for his past statements.
Addressing Past Controversies
Ye specifically addressed his previous expressions of admiration for Adolf Hitler and his use of swastika imagery, stating: "I regret and am deeply mortified by my actions in that state, and am committed to accountability, treatment and meaningful change. It does not excuse what I did, though. I am not a Nazi or an antisemite. I love Jewish people."
Reaction from Jewish Organizations
The Anti-Defamation League, which monitors antisemitism globally, responded to Ye's apology with cautious acknowledgment. An ADL spokesperson described the apology as "long overdue" while noting his extensive history of antisemitic behavior. The organization emphasized that true apology would require consistent future behavior change rather than just words.
Medical History and Diagnosis
Ye revealed significant details about his medical history in the advertisement, including:
- A car accident 25 years ago that caused substantial brain damage
- This injury remained undiagnosed until 2023
- The medical oversight contributed to mental health problems
- He received a bipolar type-1 diagnosis following proper evaluation
The rapper described experiencing "a four-month-long manic episode of psychotic, paranoid and impulsive behavior" in early 2025 that he said "destroyed his life." He admitted reaching a point where he "hit rock bottom a few months ago" and experienced thoughts of not wanting "to be here anymore."
Addressing the Black Community
Ye also directed apologies to the Black community, acknowledging their foundational role in his identity. "It was unquestionably, the foundation of who I am. I am so sorry to have let you down. I love us," he wrote, showing recognition of how his actions affected his own community.
Understanding His Condition
Interestingly, Ye previously claimed to be on the autism spectrum rather than having bipolar disorder. However, he explained that reading Reddit posts from other people experiencing manic episodes helped him realize he wasn't alone and understand he has a chronic mood disorder requiring proper treatment.
Upcoming Album Release
Despite the ongoing controversy, Ye's next album titled "Bully" is scheduled for release on Friday according to the Spotify website. The timing of his public apology coincides with this musical release, creating a complex backdrop for his return to the music scene.
The rapper's detailed explanation about bipolar disorder included insights about how the condition affects perception: "Bipolar disorder comes with its own defense system. Denial. When you're manic, you don't think you're sick. You think everyone else is overreacting. You feel like you're seeing the world more clearly than ever, when in reality you're losing your grip entirely."
This public apology represents one of Ye's most comprehensive attempts to address the controversies that have surrounded him in recent years, combining personal health revelations with expressions of remorse for specific actions that have offended Jewish communities worldwide.
