Kanye West Ordered to Pay $140,000 to Handyman in Malibu Mansion Dispute
A Los Angeles jury has found Kanye West liable for $140,000 in damages to Tony Saxon, a former employee who oversaw renovations at West’s former Malibu mansion, according to reports from Fox LA and People Magazine.
Background of the Lawsuit
Tony Saxon, a handyman and project manager, initially filed a lawsuit in September 2023 alleging breach of contract, disability discrimination, and multiple labor code violations. He claimed he was promised $20,000 per week to oversee the extensive remodel of the $57 million Malibu property, but only received a single payment of that amount. Rolling Stone reports Saxon testified he was later fired in November 2021 after refusing what he considered “dangerous requests” and being forced to sleep on the mansion floor.
The Trial and Jury’s Decision
The two-week trial revealed that Saxon sought $1.7 million in damages, citing lost wages and medical expenses related to alleged hazardous conditions. Though, the jury ultimately awarded Saxon $140,000, significantly less than the requested amount. Yahoo Entertainment notes that the jury did not award any additional punitive damages.
West’s Testimony
During the proceedings, West testified he had limited recollection of Saxon and the details surrounding his hiring, stating, “I’m not sure” when questioned about his role as CEO of Yeezy Construction. His wife, Bianca Censori, likewise testified, stating her interactions with Saxon during the renovation were brief.
Sale of the Malibu Property
West purchased the Malibu mansion in 2021 and extensively renovated it, stripping it of many of its original fixtures. He subsequently sold the property in September 2024 for $21 million, taking a substantial loss. Yahoo Entertainment reports that Jason Oppenheim, whose brokerage handled the sale, confirmed the property was in escrow in August 2024.
Looking Ahead
The verdict concludes this specific dispute, but a representative for West indicated they are pursuing a separate case regarding Saxon’s “unlawful mechanic’s lien” on the Malibu property, as reported by People Magazine. This case highlights the potential legal complexities involved in large-scale celebrity real estate projects.