KANYE WEST BANNED FROM TWITCH SEVEN MINUTES INTO LIVESTREAM AFTER ANTISEMITIC RANT AND NAZI SALUTE

In what may go down as one of the shortest and most controversial livestreams in digital history, Kanye West–or as he’s now legally known–Ye, was banned from Twitch just seven minutes after going live on April 25, 2025. The rapper and fashion mogul had seemingly intended to use the platform to reconnect with his audience in real time, but instead sparked immediate global outrage with hate-filled remarks and deeply offensive gestures that violated Twitch’s strict community guidelines.

The livestream, which appeared without prior announcement, drew thousands of viewers within minutes. The curiosity surrounding Ye’s return to streaming was electric, with fans and critics alike rushing to see what the embattled artist had to say. What followed, however, was a swift descent into vitriol. In the few minutes that the stream was active, Kanye made antisemitic remarks, performed a Nazi salute while uttering “Heil Hitler,” and openly praised Adolf Hitler. He also directed hostility toward his ex-wife Kim Kardashian and lauded Elon Musk for giving him what he called “free rein” on X (Twitter).

Twitch acted quickly. The stream was abruptly terminated, and viewers were met with a stark message: “This channel is temporarily unavailable due to a violation of Twitch’s Community Guidelines or Terms of Service.” Given that bans of this nature–particularly mid-broadcast–are rare, it’s evident that Twitch moderators were closely monitoring Ye’s stream, either anticipating trouble or responding to reports in real-time. The rapid decision to pull the plug reflects the platform’s zero-tolerance stance on hate speech and extremist rhetoric.

Public reaction was swift and fierce. Social media erupted with condemnation, with many calling the stream a new low in Kanye’s ongoing descent into public controversy. Prominent streamers and content creators, including several who had previously supported or remained neutral about Ye’s antics, voiced their support for Twitch’s decision. Some emphasized that the platform must remain a safe space for all users, regardless of celebrity status.

This incident adds yet another platform to the growing list of digital spaces that have banned or suspended Ye in recent years. Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube have all taken disciplinary actions against the artist at different times due to similar behavior. Despite multiple public outcries and brand losses, including severed ties with Adidas and Balenciaga, Ye has continued to spiral into deeper controversy, often doubling down on his remarks rather than walking them back.

In a response to the Twitch ban, West announced plans to launch his own streaming service, “Yeezy Streaming,” where he claims he’ll have full control over his narrative. While details remain sparse, and its future uncertain, the idea has already been met with skepticism, especially given his increasingly extremist public image and strained relationship with mainstream tech companies.

Kanye’s short-lived Twitch appearance marks not only a new chapter in his unpredictable career but also a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with platform access in the digital age. In a world that is becoming increasingly intolerant of hate and bigotry, even celebrities of Ye’s stature are not immune to the consequences of their actions, especially when they unfold live, unfiltered, and under the scrutiny of millions.