Malibu Mansion Trial Sees Kanye West Nodding off and Forgetting Details
Ye, the artist once known as Kanye West, grabbed attention this week during a civil trial in Los Angeles. The case involves contractor Tony Saxon, who claims he is owed over $1 million for unpaid work and expenses from a 2021 renovation at Ye’s former Malibu mansion.
Journalists in the courtroom said Ye often looked drowsy. He repeatedly yawned, kept his eyes closed for long stretches, and sometimes seemed to nod forward while on the witness stand.
The behavior was noticeable enough that the plaintiff’s attorney, Ron Zambrano, reportedly asked a colleague if Ye was actually sleeping. When he did answer, Ye’s testimony was short and vague. He frequently responded with simple “yes” or “no” answers, or said, “I don’t recall.”
He did provide some specific memories when pressed, like noticing Saxon’s body odor, but he denied knowing other details, such as trips to a hardware store. Ye also clarified his preferred name, insisting, “It’s just Ye. No ‘mister.’”
Regarding the renovation, he corrected claims that he wanted all the staircases turned into slides, explaining that only one was meant to be changed. He also said he had a different plumbing plan for the house.
Ye was described as “emotionless” and “statue-like” in court today, often giving very short answers, mostly “I don’t recall” and “I don’t remember.”
— Yeezyrih (@Yeeezyrih) March 6, 2026
Sketch 🖌️ by courtroom illustrator Mona Shafer Edwards. https://t.co/mATIfLZczP pic.twitter.com/Myw0a8qVUK
His appearance came after testimony from his wife, Bianca Censori, who said Saxon misrepresented his qualifications when he was hired. Saxon has denied this, saying he was honest about being a project manager and not a licensed contractor.
Outside the courtroom, Ye is focused on his music career. He is preparing to release his twelfth studio album, Bully, on March 20. The album follows his collaborative Vultures series and has been highly anticipated by fans after multiple delays.
Ye is also planning a big live performance schedule this year. He has announced stadium shows in Europe, including the Netherlands and Italy, marking his first major international tour in over ten years. Fans are watching closely for news on possible stops in Asia and North America, as he balances his music, touring, and business projects.
The Malibu trial gave fans and the media a glimpse of a different side of Ye—tired, brief, and sometimes nodding off—but it’s clear he is still juggling high-profile legal battles with a busy, evolving career.
Have something to add? Share your thoughts in the comments.
