Kanye West is embroiled in a new legal battle as a lawsuit filed in a U.S. District Court accuses him and his former chief of staff, Milo Yiannopoulos, of creating a toxic and exploitative work environment. The lawsuit, which includes allegations of forced labor, racism, and degrading treatment, also implicates West's wife, Bianca Censori.
According to the legal documents, the disgraced rapper, 47, and Yiannopoulos are accused of using racist language and referring to employees, some as young as 14, as "slaves." The lawsuit claims that the YZYVSN development team, tasked with developing an app to promote West's music, was subjected to harsh working conditions, including long hours and unpaid labor.
The lawsuit reveals that West and Yiannopoulos required employees to sign non-disclosure agreements and volunteer agreements, threatening termination and non-payment if they refused. Employees reportedly communicated with West and his team via digital platforms such as Discord, Zoom, and Slack.
One disturbing allegation includes Yiannopoulos sending a Black/brown skin emoji to an African American staffer and calling another member a "school shooter." In another incident, West's wife, Bianca Censori, allegedly sent explicit videos to underage employees after West announced plans to start an adult film business called "Yeezy Porn."
A former employee, identified as Pisciotta, detailed inappropriate behavior by West, including asking female guests and his wife to perform sexual acts in the office changing room. Pisciotta also claimed that West asked design assistants why Pisciotta wouldn't want to have sex with him.
The lawsuit, obtained by TMZ, highlights the broader issue of a hostile work environment created by West and his white managers, who reportedly mocked and bullied minority and underage employees. These workers were allegedly forced to work without pay or rest and subjected to racist remarks.
The app development project, which began in April 2024, promised a $120,000 payment upon completion, contingent on employees signing restrictive agreements. Despite completing the app on May 1, 2024, the employees were never compensated, leading them to seek damages for unpaid wages, overtime, and emotional distress.
Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein commented on the seriousness of the allegations, emphasizing the impact on the young and vulnerable workers involved. "These accusations of exploitation and degrading treatment are deeply troubling, particularly given the age and background of the employees," he stated.
The lawsuit is the latest in a series of legal troubles for West, who has faced numerous lawsuits over the past year, causing concern among his inner circle about his financial stability. This new case adds to the growing list of allegations against the rapper, who has been scrutinized for his erratic behavior and controversial statements.
West's actions have not only drawn legal consequences but have also led to public backlash. Entertainment Magazine reported on the source's remarks, highlighting the widespread criticism of West's management style and treatment of employees.
