Julia Fox Reveals How Kanye West Treated Her Like a “Show Monkey” Over Outfits
In her 2023 memoir Down the Drain, Julia Fox reflects on her tumultuous relationship with rapper Kanye West, admitting that she “regrets” the time they spent together. Fox, who briefly dated West following his split from Kim Kardashian, describes how the rapper allegedly controlled and dictated her outfits, making her feel like a “show monkey.”
Fox shares that on one occasion, West even suggested she undergo a “boob job” due to how an outfit fit on her chest, further emphasizing the extent of his involvement in her fashion choices. The actress, best known for her role in Uncut Gems, says she felt like a mere “prop” for West, paraded around as part of his public persona, rather than being seen as an equal partner.
This revelation comes as Kanye West once again made headlines at the 2025 Grammys, where he appeared with his wife, Bianca Censori. Censori caused a stir by shedding her clothes in a daring stunt at the event, revealing a sheer dress underneath her oversized fur coat. While West has not commented on whose idea the outfit was, the incident adds another layer to his controversial public image.
In her memoir, Fox candidly opens up about how she felt during her time with West, describing their relationship as a “publicity stunt” where she was often used for his image rather than being treated as a significant other.
In conclusion, Julia Fox’s revelations about her brief relationship with Kanye West shed light on the troubling dynamics of their time together. Her memoir, Down the Drain, offers an honest account of how she felt manipulated and objectified by the rapper, particularly regarding his control over her fashion choices. The way she describes being treated like a “show monkey” highlights the pressures she faced, with West dictating not only her wardrobe but even suggesting cosmetic changes. Fox’s candid reflections on their relationship suggest that it was more about public spectacle and image-building than genuine connection.
The timing of these revelations, coinciding with West’s latest headline-making appearance at the 2025 Grammys, serves to reinforce the consistent pattern of eccentric and often controversial behavior that has come to define his public persona. West’s tendency to turn his personal life into a spectacle continues, as seen in his wife’s attention-grabbing stunt at the awards show. However, the deeper issue lies in how these actions affect those around him, particularly women who find themselves caught in the whirlwind of his fame and control.
Fox’s account not only sheds light on the complexities of being involved with a high-profile figure like West but also raises broader questions about power dynamics in relationships, celebrity culture, and the objectification of women. Ultimately, her regrets about the relationship suggest that, for her, it was an experience marked by personal exploitation, leaving her to reflect on the emotional and psychological toll it took. As she moves forward, her story serves as a reminder of the importance of autonomy and respect in any relationship, no matter how public or high-profile.
