Kanye West, also known as Ye, has sparked widespread controversy following a shocking confession about his childhood on social media. On April 21, 2025, the rapper took to X (formerly Twitter) to reveal that he had a sexual relationship with his cousin when they were children, a revelation that has raised eyebrows and prompted discussions about mental health and childhood trauma.
In a post that quickly went viral, West explained the inspiration behind his new song titled "Cousins," stating, "This song is called COUSINS about my cousin that’s locked in jail for life for killing a pregnant lady a few years after I told him we wouldn’t 'look at dirty magazines together' anymore." The graphic nature of his confession included disturbing details about his exposure to explicit material at a young age, which he suggested may have contributed to the troubling incidents.
West's candid admission included the shocking statement, "My name is Ye and I sucked my cousin's d**k till I was 14." This revelation has not only shocked fans but has also led to immediate backlash and concern for his mental health. Social media users expressed discomfort, with many calling for the post to be reported and questioning West's intentions.
In the same post, he reflected on his childhood, saying, "Perhaps in my self-centered mess I felt it was my fault that I showed him those dirty magazines when he was 6 and then we acted out what we saw. My dad had Playboy magazines but the magazines I found in the top of my mom's closet were different." This admission has sparked discussions about accountability and the impact of childhood trauma.
Following his confession, West shared a picture with his wife, Bianca Censori, on April 22, 2025, which seemed to indicate that their relationship is still intact despite rumors of a split. The image, captioned "fit pic," showed the couple together, with West wearing a black hoodie and Censori in a revealing outfit. This display of unity comes amid the controversy surrounding his recent statements.
In addition to his shocking revelations about his cousin, West has been embroiled in a series of controversies in recent years. Earlier in April, he publicly apologized to fellow rapper Jay-Z for a since-deleted message questioning the mental capacity of Jay-Z and Beyoncé's twins. "I’m sorry Jay Z," he wrote on X, expressing regret for his earlier tweet, which he felt had caused unnecessary tension.
West's behavior has raised concerns among fans and mental health advocates alike, especially considering his previous struggles with mental health. He has been open about his battles in the past, and this latest incident has led many to speculate about his current state of mind.
In his new song "Cousins," West has not only shared his personal experiences but has also highlighted the impact of his cousin's incarceration. The cousin, who is serving a life sentence for the murder of a pregnant woman, has been a subject of discussion in West's family for years. In a 2018 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel's show, West mentioned, "My cousin is locked up for murder and I love him. So he did a bad thing, but I still love him." This sentiment reflects the complexity of familial relationships and the challenges faced by those with incarcerated loved ones.
Kim Kardashian, West's ex-wife, also spoke about the cousin in 2020 during her appearance on "Kim Kardashian West: The Justice Project." She revealed that West's cousin had received a double life sentence for a murder committed at the age of 17, highlighting the harsh realities faced by families in their community.
Despite the backlash, West's confession and the accompanying song have opened up a broader conversation about childhood abuse, accountability, and the long-term effects of trauma. Many social media users have expressed concern for West's well-being, urging him to seek professional help and support.
As the public grapples with the implications of West's revelations, it also raises questions about the role of celebrity culture in addressing sensitive topics. The shock value of his confession has drawn attention, but it also highlights the need for compassion and understanding in discussions about mental health and childhood experiences.
West's recent behavior on social media has been erratic, with previous incidents involving controversial statements and outfits that have drawn criticism. His X account has faced multiple suspensions due to offensive content, and he has lost significant sponsorship deals as a result of his actions. This pattern of behavior has led to increased scrutiny of his mental health and the support systems available to him.
In the midst of this turmoil, West's upcoming album, titled "WW3," is set to include tracks that delve into his personal life and relationships. One notable track, "BIANCA," reportedly addresses his marriage to Censori and the challenges they have faced together. The lyrics hint at struggles within their relationship, including moments of separation and the impact of external pressures.
As the music world anticipates the release of West's new projects, fans and critics alike are left wondering how his personal experiences will shape his artistry moving forward. The intersection of his life and work continues to captivate audiences, even as they express concern for his mental health and overall well-being.
In a world where celebrity confessions often spark outrage and debate, West's revelations serve as a reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the importance of addressing difficult issues with sensitivity and care. As discussions around his statements continue, the hope is that they will lead to greater awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by those dealing with trauma and mental health struggles.
