Tesla CEO Elon Musk has made controversial remarks regarding his transgender daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, claiming that she was “killed” after undergoing gender-affirming care. During an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, which aired Monday, Musk criticized gender-reassignment surgery, labeling it as “child mutilation and sterilization.” He discussed how his daughter came out as transgender at the age of 16 after receiving such care during the pandemic.
Musk mentioned feeling misled when he consented to documents related to his daughter’s care, stating that he was not fully informed about the implications at the time, particularly during the chaotic period of COVID-19. He expressed concern about minors receiving such treatments, indicating agreement with Peterson’s assertion that it is “incredibly evil” and advocated for those who promote it to face imprisonment. Musk, a father of 12, claimed he was unaware that puberty blockers could be classified as sterilization drugs, despite evidence indicating that they do not directly affect fertility.
Musk lamented the estrangement from his daughter, suggesting that the term “deadnaming” reflects the loss he feels. His comments appear to be part of a broader reaction to recent legislative developments in California, including a law that restricts schools from notifying parents about their child’s transgender identification. Musk has faced criticism for perceived transphobia and has previously indicated that his daughter’s education at a progressive school in Los Angeles has fractured their relationship.
Wilson sought a name and gender change in 2022, stating in court documents that she no longer wishes to be associated with her biological father. Musk’s shifting political views, especially his increasing alignment with conservative viewpoints on various issues, have become a significant part of his public identity. Recently, he endorsed the Republican presidential ticket of former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance, both of whom advocate for the oil industry and oppose clean energy initiatives.