Model and America’s Next Top Model alum Jenn An has filed a lawsuit against Kanye West, accusing the rapper of assaulting her during the filming of a music video in 2010. The legal complaint, filed in New York federal court on November 22, outlines disturbing allegations about the artist’s behaviour during the shoot.
An, who appeared on Season 13 of ANTM and finished in third place, alleges that West, now 47, orchestrated and filmed a deeply unsettling encounter while working on the music video for La Roux’s remix of “In for the Kill,” which featured him. According to the suit, the incident occurred at the Chelsea Hotel in New York City, where An was employed as a background actress.
The lawsuit claims An was dressed in “revealing lingerie” when West allegedly singled her out, saying, “Give me the Asian girl.” Despite her discomfort, An alleges that West directed all other actors to leave the room before beginning to stage what he purported to be an “artistic” scene.
An’s complaint states that West choked her with one hand, then both hands, and forced his fingers down her throat while asking a camera crew to zoom in on her face. She alleges the rapper described the act as “art,” comparing himself to Picasso. The suit also details how An struggled to breathe, felt close to blacking out, and was left covered in saliva and smeared makeup after the incident.
West, who legally changed his name to Ye, is accused of violating New York’s Gender Motivated Violence Act. An is seeking damages for physical, emotional, and reputational harm, as well as punitive damages and coverage of her legal fees.
The suit also names Universal Music Group (UMG) as a co-defendant, alleging the company failed to address or investigate West’s actions. It claims UMG and its affiliate labels prioritized profit over accountability, enabling artists with histories of misconduct.
In response to the incident, An’s legal team has accused UMG of “systematically discriminating against women” and suppressing reports of misconduct to protect high-profile figures. According to the lawsuit, UMG worked to “bury” the incident and shield West from repercussions. Notably, the final cut of the music video excluded West and An altogether.
This lawsuit adds to a growing list of legal troubles for West. He is currently facing multiple allegations, including a recent suit by former Yeezy project manager Murphy Aficionado, who accused him of workplace discrimination and harassment. Another former employee filed a sexual assault lawsuit, claiming West drugged her during a recording session in 2021.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.