Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently made controversial remarks about his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, claiming she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. During an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson, Musk criticized gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” Wilson came out as transgender at 16 and received care during the pandemic.
Musk expressed regret over his involvement in the decision, stating, “I was essentially tricked into signing documents.” He noted that his daughter, who has since distanced herself from him by dropping his last name, faced significant emotional distress that led him to approve the care under the impression it could prevent suicide. He denounced the practice of providing such care to children who have not reached the age of consent, echoing Peterson’s view that it is “incredibly evil” and advocating for those who promote it to face imprisonment.
The comments come as Musk’s companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, are relocating to Texas, partly due to California’s recent legislation concerning transgender youth and parental notification. Musk’s relationship with his daughter has reportedly suffered due to her schooling in Los Angeles, which he blames for their estrangement. In 2022, Wilson filed for a name change and expressed a desire to sever ties with Musk completely.
Over the past few years, Musk has shifted from his previously center-left views to more conservative stances, openly criticizing various progressive policies and endorsing Republican candidates.