Is Kanye West attending the Grammys 2026? Rapper reportedly barred after last year’s Bianca Censori stunt

Kanye West, now known as Ye, is not expected to attend the 2026 Grammy Awards after reportedly being barred from the ceremony despite issuing a public apology earlier this week.

Sources close to the situation claim that the Recording Academy has decided not to invite West to this year’s event, with insiders suggesting the decision is final. According to one source, “The Grammys will never give Kanye tickets again,” adding that “he is not welcome.” The claims suggest that organisers were unmoved by his recent efforts to address past controversies.

Earlier this week, West took out a full-page advertisement in The Wall Street Journal, publishing a written apology in which he reflected on his behaviour in recent years. In the letter, he acknowledged losing his way and treating people close to him poorly, writing, “I regret and am deeply mortified by my actions in that state, and am committed to accountability.” He also asked for patience from the public as he attempts to rebuild his reputation.

Despite this statement, sources allege that tensions between West and the Recording Academy remain unresolved. The reported ban is said to stem from a long history of unpredictable behaviour, culminating in a controversial red carpet appearance at last year’s Grammy Awards alongside his wife, Bianca Censori. That incident is believed to have caused significant frustration among event organisers.

One insider claimed it was “unlikely he will try to crash this year,” while conceding that with West, “you never know.” Another source confirmed that no invitation had been extended to him for the 2026 ceremony.

As the music industry gathers at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles for Sunday’s awards show, West is expected to be elsewhere. He is reportedly focused on upcoming concerts in Mexico and preparing for the release of his new album, Bully. For now, his place at music’s biggest night appears to be firmly closed.