‘America’s Next Top Model’ Contestant Sues Kanye West Claiming 2010 ‘Strangulation’

LOS ANGELES, CA. (THECOUNT) — Jennifer An, a model and former contestant on “America’s Next Top Model,” has filed a lawsuit accusing Kanye West of sexual assault during a 2010 music video shoot for La Roux’s song “In for the Kill.” The allegations, detailed in a complaint obtained by Page Six, describe an incident that allegedly occurred on September 7, 2010, at the Chelsea Hotel in New York City.

West, who featured on the remix of the British pop duo’s song, reportedly arrived on set accompanied by his then-girlfriend, Selita Ebanks. According to the lawsuit, West allegedly took over the production despite the presence of the director, Kinga Burza.

Alleged Incident:

An claims she was hired to model in the video and that West’s behavior toward her on set became inappropriate and ultimately abusive. She alleges that while directing the models, West singled her out, saying, “Give me the Asian girl,” a remark that made her feel “uncomfortable.”

The lawsuit describes how West allegedly instructed An, who was wearing only lingerie, to join him on a long couch in the back of the suite, where a camera was positioned. She claims that West began choking her with one hand, then used both hands to strangle her, and later smothered her face with his hands, smearing her makeup.

An further alleges that West “rammed several fingers down her throat” and gagged her to simulate forced oral sex, shouting, “This is art. This is f***ing art. I am like Picasso.” The complaint describes the behavior as resembling “BDSM fetishes.”

Trauma and Reactions:

The lawsuit details An’s struggle during the incident, claiming she began to panic and momentarily blacked out due to the choking. She alleges that, despite the presence of several people on set, no one intervened. She recalls making eye contact with Ebanks after the incident, but claims that Ebanks “abruptly turned her head away.”

Following the incident, An alleges she felt “extremely humiliated, degraded, victimized, embarrassed, and emotionally distressed.” Over the years, she claims to have suffered physical, emotional, and financial consequences from the alleged assault.

Legal Claims Against West and Universal Music Group:

An is suing not only West but also Universal Music Group, which backed West at the time. She claims the company failed to investigate or take action regarding the incident, alleging that West’s profitability was prioritized over addressing his alleged misconduct.

The lawsuit accuses West of violating federal and state laws, including strangulation in the second degree, a sexually motivated felony, and assault. An is seeking unspecified damages for the trauma and harm she says she has endured.

Additional Allegations:

The lawsuit comes amid other legal troubles for West, who is also being sued by a former assistant for sexual assault, allegations he has denied.

Current Responses:

Representatives for Kanye West and Selita Ebanks have not responded to requests for comment. Universal Music Group has also not issued a statement regarding the allegations.

Ongoing Investigation:

The allegations and lawsuit against Kanye West highlight serious concerns regarding power dynamics and accountability in the entertainment industry. As the legal proceedings unfold, An’s claims underscore the importance of addressing misconduct and ensuring safety for all individuals working within creative spaces.

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