Tensions flared between rapper Kanye West and journalist Don Lemon after a Grammys-related controversy spiraled into an online feud. False rumors suggesting that West and his wife, Bianca Censori, were forcibly escorted out of the event sent social media into a frenzy—and both men had plenty to say.
The Rumor That Sparked It All
On Sunday night, the internet buzzed with speculation that Kanye West and Bianca Censori had been kicked out of the Grammys. The story gained traction after reports spread claiming the couple was not invited and had to be removed from the venue.
West, who now goes by Ye, quickly refuted the claim and pointed fingers at Don Lemon, accusing him of fabricating the story. In a since-deleted social media post, West referred to Lemon as a “goofball” and blamed him for fueling the false reports.
The controversy intensified as more internet users shared the rumor. Many wondered: If the claim was false, where did it come from? And why did Kanye believe that Lemon was responsible?
Don Lemon Strikes Back
Lemon wasted no time responding. The former CNN anchor posted a video addressing West directly, denying the accusation.
“First of all, Kanye, Yee, Ye, whatever your name is—I did not start a rumor about you being kicked out of the Grammys,” Lemon stated, laughing. “I actually corrected it. I saw someone on your team who asked me to correct it because it had been reported everywhere. First of all, get your [expletive] straight.”
The veteran journalist didn’t stop there. Taking another jab, he referenced West’s past embrace of former president Donald Trump’s MAGA slogan. “Negro, that Make America Great Again hat must be too tight on your head,” Lemon quipped.
The sharp response only intensified the back-and-forth, with West’s supporters rallying behind him and Lemon’s followers applauding his rebuttal. The online spectacle had officially taken on a life of its own.
Grammys Drama: Kanye’s Red Carpet Moment
Controversy seemed to follow West throughout the Grammy night. His arrival with Bianca Censori turned heads for more reasons than one.
Censori made a daring fashion statement by shedding her black coat, revealing a sheer, see-through dress with no visible undergarments. The bold move instantly sparked debates, with some praising her confidence while others criticized the look as inappropriate for the prestigious event.
Meanwhile, West had his own viral moment on the red carpet. As Lemon tried to approach him for a brief interview, the exchange took an awkward turn.
Lemon asked West, “Who’s the number one artist you want to put on right now?”
West’s response was short and dismissive. “Give me a second, I’m focused,” he said before walking away.
The brief but blunt exchange left Lemon without an answer—and the internet with yet another Kanye moment to dissect.
The Truth Behind the Escort Rumors
While the social media clash raged on, official sources confirmed that Kanye West and Bianca Censori were not escorted out of the Grammys.
In fact, photographers were given explicit instructions to refer to West only as “Ye” and to maintain extra distance before his arrival. Security was reportedly briefed to ensure the rapper received adequate space as he made his entrance.
West, who was nominated for Best Rap Song for his track Carnival alongside Ty Dolla $ign under their duo moniker ¥$, left the night without taking home an award. The category was ultimately won by Not Like Us by Kendrick Lamar.
With no actual removal from the event, the entire spectacle boiled down to nothing more than social media chaos. But why did the rumor gain so much traction in the first place?
A History of Public Feuds
West and Lemon have clashed before. The Grammy-night drama is just the latest chapter in a long history of public disagreements between the two.
In 2018, Lemon criticized West for aligning with Trump, calling his White House visit a “publicity stunt.” West, in turn, attacked mainstream media, claiming journalists like Lemon were part of the problem.
Over the years, both men—known for their outspoken, unfiltered opinions—have taken jabs at each other whenever their paths have crossed. So, when rumors about West’s Grammy appearance surfaced, it was almost inevitable that Lemon would get involved.
But even with their history, this social media spat escalated faster than most expected.
What’s Next for Kanye and Lemon?
As of now, neither West nor Lemon has indicated any plans to dial back their public battle. While West has deleted his initial post, Lemon’s video response remains online, continuing to stir discussions.
With West working on his joint project with Ty Dolla $ign and Lemon focusing on his next media chapter after his CNN departure, both have multiple career moves ahead. Whether they continue their feud or move on remains to be seen.
For now, one thing is clear: in the age of social media, a single rumor—true or false—can snowball into a major headline faster than ever before. And when it involves two of the most outspoken figures in entertainment and media, the firestorm becomes unavoidable.
Will this be the last public clash between Kanye West and Don Lemon? Or is it just another chapter in their ongoing rivalry?
Only time will tell.
Source: Hollywood Reporter