Jenn An, a former contestant on America’s Next Top Model, has filed a lawsuit against Kanye West, alleging that he assaulted her during the filming of a music video in 2010. The suit, submitted to a New York federal court on November 22, accuses the rapper of staging an incident in which he choked her and forced his fingers down her throat while filming La Roux’s song “In for the Kill,” for which West provided a remix.
The allegations detail a disturbing encounter that took place at New York City’s Chelsea Hotel in September 2010. According to the lawsuit, An was working as a background actress and was dressed in revealing lingerie when West singled her out, instructing the crew to “give me the Asian girl.” An claims she responded, “I’m not wearing very much,” to which West allegedly replied, “That’s why I chose you.” He then ordered other background actors to leave the room, setting the stage for what An describes as a traumatic experience.
As the lawsuit outlines, West allegedly began to film an unplanned scene where he was “towering over” An and “breathing heavily.” He reportedly asked the camera crew for a close-up of her face before using his hands to simulate forced oral sex. The suit claims that West choked An with one hand while using his other hand to strangle her, ramming his fingers down her throat and gagging her for over a minute.
“On camera, defendant West began to choke plaintiff with one hand. He then wrapped his other hand around her neck and continued to strangle her with both hands,” the lawsuit states. During this assault, he allegedly shouted, “This is art. This is f—— art. I am like Picasso,” likening his actions to artistic expression in a manner reminiscent of BDSM fetishes.
An described feeling panic during the incident, struggling to breathe and experiencing what she perceived as temporary blackouts. When West finally stopped, she reported that her face was covered in saliva and smeared makeup.
The lawsuit also names Universal Music Group (UMG) as a co-defendant, accusing the company of failing to investigate the incident despite being aware of West’s history of controversial behavior. The suit alleges that UMG prioritized West’s profitability over addressing his alleged misconduct. It states that West’s “gendered, hateful, and abusive controversies were a brand too profitable for Defendant Universal Music to intervene.”
An argues that West violated New York’s Gender Motivated Violence Act and is seeking punitive damages, legal fees, and compensation for mental, emotional, and physical injuries. Her attorneys assert that UMG systematically discriminates against women by continuing to collaborate with artists who have documented histories of sexual harassment.
In light of these serious allegations, An is requesting a jury trial to address the claims against both West and UMG. The lawsuit emphasizes the need for accountability within the music industry regarding treatment of women and highlights An’s commitment to justice.
The final version of the music video for “In for the Kill” does not feature either West or An. This legal action adds to a growing list of lawsuits against West in recent months, reflecting ongoing concerns about his behavior both personally and professionally.
An rose to fame as a contestant on *ANTM* Season 13 in 2009, where she finished in third place. Since then, she has transitioned into acting with appearances in shows such as *Criminal Minds* and *The Mindy Project*.
As Jenn An seeks justice through her lawsuit against Kanye West and Universal Music Group, this case highlights significant issues regarding consent and accountability in the entertainment industry. With allegations of such serious nature coming to light, it raises important questions about how artists are held responsible for their actions and how institutions can better protect individuals from abuse.
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