Kanye West was recently reported to be going to trial over a $1 million lawsuit stemming from his now-sold Malibu Mansion, sparking renewed attention for the property and its disastrous remodeling. The lawsuit was first filed nearly three years ago by Tony Saxon, who worked as West’s project manager on the remodelling before being allegedly terminated for raising safety concerns. In it, he accused the rapper of subjecting him to harsh working conditions, among other negative things.
Kanye West reportedly going to trial for $1M over Malibu Mansion
Kanye West is reportedly going to trial on a $1 million lawsuit related to the controversial remodelling of his Malibu mansion. The jury selection began on February 23, 2026.
The lawsuit, filed in September 2023 by Tony Saxon, accused West of disability discrimination, violation of the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, and labor code violations. Notably, West, who denied Saxon’s accusations, reportedly sued the latter and his lawyers last month. In his lawsuit, the “Stronger” artist alleged that they wrongly placed a $1.8 million lien on the Malibu mansion.
West purchased the property in 2021 for a staggering $57.3 million. He then stripped it of basic amenities, such as electricity and plumbing, before selling it for $21 million in 2024. Steven “Bo” Belmont of Belwood Investments purchased the property. He subsequently promised to fully restore it to its original state in an interview with the Los Angeles Times. However, he was later reported to be facing foreclosure on the property for defaulting on an $18.5 million mortgage.
West’s trial, expected to last for approximately 12 days, will be presided over by Judge Brock T. Hammond. He warned parties and witnesses to strictly adhere to the dress code; failure to do so would result in denial of entry to the courtroom. “The parties and witnesses you’re calling must comply with the basic dress code of the court. No hats, sunglasses, or revealing clothing. No drama,” he shared in a statement (via Rolling Stone). The statement continued, “And if someone doesn’t comply, they will not be allowed in the courtroom. If a witness is not dressed appropriately, they will be turned around at the door.”
Last week, it was reported that West’s wife, Bianca Censori, would testify in the trial on Saxon’s request.
