Full Breakdown
Kanye West Ordered to Pay $140,000 in Malibu Mansion Lawsuit
3/13/2026, 11:37:02 AM
Jury Verdict and Claims
A jury in Los Angeles has ordered rapper Kanye West, also known as Ye, to pay $140,000 to handyman Tony Saxon following a lawsuit over unpaid work at West's Malibu mansion. Saxon claimed he was owed $1.7 million for labor violations, including unpaid wages, unsafe working conditions, and wrongful termination. The trial, which lasted ten days, concluded with the jury awarding Saxon $140,000 for medical expenses and lost wages, significantly less than the amount he sought.
Saxon alleged that he was hired at a rate of $20,000 per week but only received one payment of $20,000 and another of $100,000 for construction costs. He testified that he was forced to sleep on a small mattress on a concrete floor and was subjected to unsafe working conditions. During his time at the property, Saxon claimed he sustained injuries to his neck and back.
Defense and Counterclaims
West's legal team argued that Saxon was an unlicensed contractor who had "destroyed" the property, which was designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando. They contended that Saxon was paid a total of $240,000 during his six weeks of work and disputed the legitimacy of his injury claims. Andrew Cherkasky, West's lawyer, labeled Saxon a "professional victim," asserting that his testimony was unreliable and that he had fabricated his claims.
During the trial, West reportedly appeared disengaged, with media reports indicating he yawned and closed his eyes at times. His legal team maintained that he did not fall asleep but was simply bored.
Broader Implications and Future Legal Actions
The verdict is part of a larger legal battle, as West has faced multiple lawsuits from former employees. Following the jury's decision, West filed his own lawsuit against Saxon and his legal team over a $1.8 million lien placed on the Malibu property. West's representative, Milo Yiannopoulos, indicated that the case is not over, hinting at further legal proceedings.
Despite the jury's ruling, Saxon's attorney, Ronald Zambrano, expressed that the outcome was a partial victory, stating, "In true David-vs.-Goliath fashion, Mr. Saxon stood firm against one of the biggest celebrities in the world, with the truth on his side." The total amount West may ultimately owe, including legal fees, could exceed $1 million.
Conflicting Reports and Future Developments
While Saxon sought $1.7 million, the jury's award of $140,000 has raised questions about the extent of his claims. The legal proceedings are ongoing, with both parties preparing for future litigation. The Malibu mansion, purchased by West for $57 million in 2021, was sold at a significant loss for $21 million in 2023, further complicating the financial implications of this case.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The jury rejected almost all of his claims,” — Milo Yiannopoulos, West's representative
- “Today’s mixed verdict is a vindication for our client,” — Ronald Zambrano, Saxon's attorney
- “The lies are so deep and so wicked that not a thing can be believed that came out of his mouth,” — Andrew Cherkasky, West's lawyer
This case highlights the ongoing legal challenges faced by Kanye West and the complexities surrounding employment disputes in the entertainment industry.
