Model Claims Kanye West Choked Her During Music Video Shoot

Sat Jun 13 2026 12:46:07 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Former America's Next Top Model contestant says Kanye West assaulted her on set in 2010, sparking a lawsuit and debate over art vs abuse.

Jennifer An, a former America’s Next Top Model contestant, says she was choked and forced into a simulated sexual act by Kanye West, now known as Ye, during a 2010 music video shoot. An filed a civil suit under New York City’s Gender‑Motivated Violence Protection Act, arguing the act was non‑consensual assault. West’s lawyers claim the encounter was a theatrical homage to the film American Psycho and that An consented to participation. The lawsuit has not yet gone to trial, with West’s team filing a motion to dismiss based on First Amendment protection for artistic expression.

Highlights

Jennifer An, 24, was hired to appear in a La Roux music video in 2010. While filming in New York, Kanye West allegedly entered the set, choked her, smeared her makeup, and forced a simulation of oral sex.

An says she felt “suffocated, unsure and scared” and didn’t stop because she feared losing her job. She later stated the incident was “horrific.”

Her lawsuit claims sexual assault under the Gender‑Motivated Violence Protection Act. West’s lawyers argue the act was part of a “provocative theatrical performance” inspired by American Psycho and that An was a consenting performer.

The case remains pending; West’s team seeks dismissal on First Amendment grounds. An’s attorney warns that ruling in favor of the artist could set a dangerous precedent for abuse in creative spaces.

Listeners can explore the full story on the BBC’s Fame Under Fire podcast. For more updates, follow SnapScope’s news rounds.