Kanye West, the Chicago rapper and cultural icon, has found himself in the spotlight once again, but this time for his behavior during a legal deposition. A recent sneak preview of the A&E show, “Interrogation Raw: Celebrity Under Oath,” showcases a tense exchange between West and his attorney, Michael Popok, during a Zoom deposition that took place in June 2021.
The deposition unfolds
In the clip, West is seen distractedly scrolling on his phone, prompting Popok to request that he focus on the legal proceedings. West’s response is as controversial as it is revealing: “Due to my mental geniusness, in order to focus on this bulls— I need to be on a phone.” This statement highlights not only West’s unique perspective on his mental state but also his tendency to dismiss conventional norms during serious situations.
Defiance and distraction
As the deposition progresses, West’s attorneys attempt to steer him back to the matter at hand, urging him to put away his phone. After some back and forth, he reluctantly agrees but then proceeds to don a mask, further complicating the atmosphere. When questioned about his choice to wear a mask, West defiantly states, “Because you don’t have the right to see my face.” This moment encapsulates West’s ongoing struggle with privacy and his desire to control how he is perceived.
Escalating tensions
The tension escalates when Popok inquires about the room West is in, to which West responds with frustration, “I’m not gonna tell you! You never gonna see me again!” This exchange underscores West’s reluctance to cooperate and his insistence on maintaining a sense of mystery around his persona.
Popok continues to press, asking if anyone else is present in the room and if there are any other items around him. West’s retort, “Are you stupid?! I’m not gonna tell you other things. I don’t have time to be talking about, ‘I got a chair in the room.’ You are talking to the richest Black person in the history of America!” reveals his frustration with the legal process and his self-perception as a powerful figure.
The legal context
This deposition is part of a lawsuit filed against West by MyChannel, a company claiming he stole technology for his Sunday Service show. They allege that he promised to invest nearly $10 million in their venture but failed to follow through. The lawsuit highlights the complexities of celebrity dealings and the legal ramifications that can arise from them.
In September 2021, West and MyChannel reached a settlement, agreeing to dismiss the case. However, the deposition footage serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and pressures that come with fame, especially for someone like West, who has often been at the center of public scrutiny.
Public reaction and implications
The public’s reaction to this deposition clip has been mixed, with some expressing concern for West’s mental health and others criticizing his behavior as unprofessional. This incident raises important questions about the intersection of mental health, celebrity culture, and the legal system. West’s actions during the deposition may reflect deeper issues that resonate with many individuals, particularly within the Black community, where discussions about mental health are increasingly relevant.
West’s deposition serves as a fascinating case study of how celebrity and legal issues intertwine. As he navigates his legal challenges, the world watches closely, eager to see how this complex figure will continue to evolve. Whether one views him as a genius or a troubled artist, there is no denying that West remains a compelling figure in contemporary culture.
