Kanye West Absent from Crucial Racial Discrimination Deposition – What happens next?
Kanye West failed to attend a scheduled court deposition in Los Angeles on October 28, 2024, regarding an ongoing civil lawsuit. According to court filings, the rapper was in Tokyo with his wife, Bianca Censori, over 5,000 miles away from this crucial legal obligation.
Lawsuit Overview – Racial Discrimination Claims
The lawsuit was filed by Benjamin Deshon Provo, Kanye’s former security guard, alleging racial discrimination and unfair employment practices during his time with Yeezy and Donda Academy, Kanye’s private school. Provo claims he faced verbal abuse and was terminated for refusing to cut his dreadlocks, which he keeps as part of his religious beliefs as a devout Muslim. He also alleges that Kanye pressured other employees and students to shave their heads.
Kanye’s legal team previously sought to dismiss the case, arguing that his actions were “justified.” However, new court documents reveal that Kanye did not show up for his deposition and failed to provide alternative dates or responses to Provo’s legal team. Consequently, Provo’s attorneys are now pursuing a motion to compel Kanye to testify.
Legal Proceedings and Sanctions
A hearing is set for February 11, 2025, in Los Angeles to address this motion. Provo’s legal team is also requesting $1,760 in sanctions to cover costs incurred due to Kanye’s absence.
Notices were sent to Kanye’s attorneys and Yeezy headquarters in West Hollywood, which is undergoing renovations, yet Kanye did not attend or communicate regarding the missed deposition.
Ongoing Legal Challenges
Kanye’s legal troubles extend beyond this case. His former attorney, Brian Brumfield, indicated that Kanye ceased communication and refused to pay after their professional relationship ended in June 2024. As a result, Kanye currently lacks legal representation in multiple civil lawsuits.
As these legal challenges persist, the lawsuit filed by Provo remains a significant focus in Kanye West’s ongoing legal battles.
