Kanye West suggested that George Floyd died from a fentanyl overdose.
Recently, the rapper Kanye West – also known as Ye – made controversial remarks during an appearance on the podcast Drink Champs. In a conversation with hosts N.O.R.E and DJ EFN, he implied that George Floyd, who died after a police officer knelt on his neck for eight minutes, may have passed away due to fentanyl use and overdose.
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Following these comments, the family of George Floyd, particularly his daughter’s mother, Roxie Washington, have decided to take legal action against Kanye West. The lawsuit accuses West and his associates of harassment, misappropriation, defamation, and inflicting emotional distress, seeking $250 million in damages.
One of Washington’s attorneys, Pat D. Dixon III, condemned West’s remarks, stating, “Kanye’s comments are a repugnant attempt to discount George Floyd’s life and to profit from his inhumane death… We will hold Mr. West accountable for his flagrant remarks against Mr. Floyd’s legacy.”
Another attorney, Kay Harper Williams, emphasized that free speech rights do not protect actions like harassment, lies, misrepresentation, and the misuse of George Floyd’s legacy. They aim to ensure accountability for West’s words and actions.
Legal analysts have pointed out the challenges of framing this case around free speech rights. Roy S. Gutterman, from the Tully Center for Free Speech at the University of Syracuse, highlighted that proving intentional or reckless statements that cause harm can be complex, especially when involving media figures like Kanye West.
