Top 6 Most Controversial Interviews By Ye of All Time, That Sent Shockwaves In US

Published 01/29/2025, 4:09 AM EST

via Imago

Kanye West, now Ye never holds back. Whether he is on live TV, a podcast, or a radio show, he says exactly what is on his mind—no filter, no hesitation. From shocking interviews to dropping wild statements that left hosts speechless, his words have sparked headlines, debates, and jaw-dropping reactions across the US. One moment, he is calling out industries, and the next, he is making claims no one saw coming. 

These interviews were anything but ordinary. Some got him canceled, others turned into viral memes, and few even changed how people saw him forever. Get ready to relive the most hot-take Ye moments that had the internet talking nonstop!

Ye's 2005 unscripted moment that stunned America

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During a live telethon in 2005 to raise money for Hurricane Katrina victims, Ye appeared next to actor Mike Myers delivering a heartfelt plea for donations. As Myers read from the script, Ye veered off-course, expressing his frustration with the media's portrayal of Black Americans during the disaster. He passionately stated, "George Bush does not care about black people." This surprising statement visibly shocked Myers, and it soon went viral though the broadcast swiftly cut away.  

Years later during an unexpected monologue while meeting President Donald Trump at the White House Ye reflected on the incident, acknowledging that he "chose the wrong words" and "didn't have the grounds to call [Bush] a racist." 

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Ye's heated exchange with Lex Fridman

Ye went on MIT research scientist Lex Fridman's podcast leading to a fiery discussion that blew up into a huge controversy. During the interview, Ye made controversial remarks about the Holocaust, abortion, and the Jewish community. He reportedly criticized "Jewish record labels" and suggested that a Jewish friend of his had recommended visiting the Holocaust Museum, to which Ye responded, "Let's visit our Holocaust Museum: Planned Parenthood." Fridman, who is Jewish, challenged Ye's statements, aiming to foster understanding and dialogue. 

Despite Fridman's efforts to engage in a constructive conversation, Ye remained steadfast in his views, offering no remorse for his comments, which made things worse. The interview came at a time when Ye reportedly seemed to be on an antisemitic streak, and the fallout was significant for him during this time. Brands like Balenciaga, talent agency CAA and Adidas broke up ties with Ye, citing his antisemitic remarks.

Ye’s comment on slavery sparked a firestorm

Ye stirred up a storm during a TMZ Live interview. in 2018 when he remarked, "When you hear about slavery for 400 years... that sounds like a choice." This statement fueled widespread backlash, with many accusing him of ignorance and insensitivity. Celebrities like Spike Lee and Will.i.am reportedly condemned his comment, calling it "ignorant" and urging him to "wake up." 

Historians also weighed in, stating that slavery was a brutal system forced on African Americans and not a choice. Word had it that Ye later attempted to explain himself, stating that he meant "mental slavery" and the right to free thought. However, the damage was done, and the incident remains one of his most controversial interviews to date.

Behind Ye's 2018 Kimmel Interview

In 2018, Ye caused controversy as he appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, discussing his mental health, support for Donald Trump, and views on racism. The interview became uncomfortable when Kimmel asked Ye why he thought Trump cared about Black people, and Ye took an awkward pause. Reportedly he clarified later that he believed Trump sought support from Black communities. 

His statements on mental illness and Trump, along with his erratic behavior at other public events such as his SNL rant, fueled debates on his political beliefs and mental illness issues.

Ye's infamous Infowars interview with Alex Jones

In another bizarre turn of events in 2022, Ye, showed up on Infowars talking to Alex Jones, delivering remarks that sent shockwaves through the nation. During the interview, Ye reportedly expressed admiration for Adolf Hitler, stating, "I see good things about Hitler." He went ahead to claim that,"I love Jewish people, but I also love Nazis". These statements offended many and ignited widespread condemnation, with the internet labeling his comments as deeply antisemitic and offensive.

Piers Morgan confronting Ye's views on antisemitism

It was towards the end of 2022 when Ye sat down with Piers Morgan for an interview that would become one of his most talked-about. The conversation quickly became heated with Morgan challenging Ye on his remarks, asking if he truly understood their racist and antisemitic implications. Ye initially showed no remorse, stating that he fought fire with fire. As the interview progressed, Ye's tone shifted, expressing regret, acknowledging the pain his words caused, especially to families who had no part in his personal struggles.

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Whether he is making bold claims, clashing with hosts, or dropping statements that send the internet into a frenzy, he always leaves a mark.  His words haven shaken up the world and keep fans, critics, and media outlets on edge, waiting for his next move. 

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Ye’s interviews always spark debates—what is your take on these unexpected momn? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Akshaya Deeksha

155 articles

Akshaya Deeksha is an Entertainment Writer at NetflixJunkie. With her passion to explore the evolving world of entertainment and her journalistic sense, she specializes in cinematic storytelling and Hollywood developments. Her expertise in lifestyle writing allows her to connect with readers through relatable content.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

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