Judge warns against "drama" in the courtroom
LOS ANGELES, California — A Los Angeles judge has mandated that all individuals attending the court proceedings related to rapper Kanye West's Malibu villa must strictly adhere to the court's dress code, or they will be denied entry to the courtroom.
According to Rolling Stone, Judge Brock T. Hammond stated at a Friday hearing that all parties and witnesses "must adhere to basic court dress code," which includes no hats, no sunglasses, and no revealing attire.
Mr. Hammond emphasized that he does not want any "drama" to occur during the proceedings. While not specifically naming Kanye West or his wife Bianca Censori, the judge clearly warned that anyone not complying with the rules would not be allowed into the courtroom.
Lawsuit concerns $57 million Malibu beachfront villa
Kanye West is required to appear in court after construction worker Tony Saxon filed a lawsuit concerning the renovation of the $57 million Malibu beachfront villa.
According to the lawsuit, Saxon claims he was fired after raising concerns about workplace safety issues at the construction site. He stated he was only paid once, despite previously being promised a salary of $20,000 per week.
Plaintiff alleges West demanded removal of entire electrical system
The lawsuit details that West demanded the removal of the entire electrical system and windows from the villa, intending to complete the renovation using large capacity generators as a substitute.
Saxon stated he refused to carry out this request, believing it created an "extremely dangerous" fire hazard. After his refusal, he was asked to leave the construction site.
Award-winning architect-designed villa, later sold for $21 million
West purchased the villa, designed by renowned award-winning architect Tadao Ando, in 2021 and subsequently undertook extensive renovations. In September 2024, he resold the home for $21 million to businessman Steve Belmont, who stated his intention to restore the house to its original design.
Trial expected to last 12 days
The trial for the lawsuit is expected to last 12 days. Kanye West and Bianca Censori are reportedly scheduled to appear in court to testify. Censori may sit at the defense table representing West's company throughout the proceedings.
