A handyman testified on Monday about his experiences working on Kanye West’s $57 million Malibu home during its controversial demolition in 2021. Jeromy Holding described the rapper, now known as Ye, as a frequent presence on the site, providing shifting and often vague instructions, as well as reprimanding workers. Holding’s testimony aimed to support claims made by former project manager Tony Saxon, who is suing Ye over alleged injuries sustained while working on the project.
Holding recounted how he was taken aback by the ongoing demolition of what he described as an “immaculate” residence designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando. He shared his initial awkward encounter with Kim Kardashian, who he mistook for architectural designer Bianca Censori, leading to Ye confronting him about the mix-up, which filled him with embarrassment.
Saxon previously testified that Ye hired him through Yeezy Construction to oversee the project and perform demolitions without the necessary permits. He claimed he was promised a salary of $20,000 a week and faced mounting pressure to meet aggressive deadlines despite suffering neck and back injuries on-site. Saxon alleged that Ye had ambitious plans to transform the house into an off-the-grid bunker, proposing unconventional methods for water recycling from waste.
Saxon shared that he felt threatened when he raised concerns about safety, recalling an interaction where Ye admonished him about power issues at the site. This tense environment mirrored what Holding described, as he noted that the plans for the property were constantly evolving, with suggestions ranging from a private school to a recording studio.
The demolition work, according to Holding, proceeded without any permits, which would have required extensive oversight from the California Coastal Commission. He indicated that Saxon was tasked with work that he was unqualified to perform, suggesting a lack of professional oversight throughout the project.
Saxon’s cross-examination has set the stage for a robust legal battle, with Ye’s attorney challenging the contractor’s qualifications and assertions about his role in the project. As the trial progresses, public attention remains focused on the outcome of this lawsuit, which is part of a larger wave of legal challenges Ye has faced in recent years. This case marks a significant moment, potentially affecting future endeavors by Ye and the reputation of his construction initiatives.