La Roux Supports Model Alleging Kanye West Choked Her on Video Set
A model has come forward with serious allegations against Kanye West, claiming he choked and sexually assaulted her during the filming of a La Roux music video. Jennifer An, a former contestant on America’s Next Top Model, filed a lawsuit against West in November 2024 under the Gender Motivated Violence Protection Act of New York City.
Kanye West’s Alleged Assault Incident
The alleged incident occurred in September 2010 while An was working as a background actress for a remix of La Roux’s song “In for the Kill.” According to court documents, West reportedly directed the crew, saying, “Give me the Asian girl,” before performing the assault. An claims that West choked her with both hands, smeared her makeup, and forcibly placed his fingers down her throat.
La Roux’s Support
Recent affidavits submitted as evidence include communications from La Roux, the artist behind the track, who vividly recalled the incident. La Roux, whose real name is Elly Jackson, expressed regret in Instagram messages, confirming she had asked for the footage not to be released.
- La Roux stated, “I have never seen the footage (thankfully) and obviously I asked for it to never be used.”
- She apologized to An and mentioned threats from West that influenced her decision to remain silent.
Legal Proceedings and Responses
West’s legal team attempted to dismiss An’s lawsuit, arguing that his actions fell under free speech protections due to the artistic context. However, An’s lawyers countered this argument, emphasizing the serious nature of her claims.
Attorney Jesse S. Weinstein stated, “We disagree with [West’s] contention that the alleged sexual assault of Ms. An was protected artistic expression.” Their filing included substantial evidence from witnesses and contemporaneous communications supporting An’s allegations.
Witness Statements
Key witnesses have also provided statements corroborating An’s claims. Makeup artist Liz Martins reported seeing West’s aggressive actions, noting the shock among the crew present.
- Martins recalled, “Everyone on set was shocked and nervous to step in because of Kanye’s influence.”
- Another individual, Michelle An, stated she did not directly witness the incident but confirmed West’s intimidating presence on set.
Current Context of Legal Challenges
Kanye West faces multiple legal challenges, including a separate lawsuit from his former worker at his Malibu mansion and another sexual assault suit filed by his former assistant. West has denied all allegations against him.
This situation continues to develop as both parties prepare for further legal proceedings.
