Tesla CEO Elon Musk expressed his views regarding his estranged transgender daughter, stating that she was “killed” after receiving gender-affirming care. Musk made these remarks during an interview with psychologist and conservative commentator Jordan Peterson, which aired recently. He referred to gender-reassignment surgery as “child mutilation and sterilization” and discussed his daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, who came out as transgender at the age of 16.
Musk mentioned that he felt misled into signing documents related to his daughter’s care during the pandemic, a time he described as confusing due to COVID-19. He claimed that he was told there was a risk of suicide involved. According to Musk, the procedures are often performed on children who have not reached the age of consent, and he agreed with Peterson’s characterization of such actions as “incredibly evil,” suggesting that those who promote it should face imprisonment.
He commented on his claims regarding puberty blockers, stating he was not informed that they could be considered sterilization drugs, although it should be noted that puberty blockers themselves do not impact fertility. Musk expressed feelings of loss over his relationship with his daughter, saying, “I lost my son, essentially,” and referred to the concept of “deadnaming” as indicative of that loss.
These comments came shortly after Musk announced plans for his companies, including X and SpaceX, to relocate to Texas, a move linked to California’s AB1955 legislation, which limits parental notification when a child identifies as transgender and mandates support for LGBTQ+ youth. Musk has previously faced accusations of promoting anti-trans messaging.
In 2022, Wilson applied for a name change and a new birth certificate, stating in court filings her desire to sever ties with Musk completely. He has attributed their strained relationship to her progressive education in Los Angeles, suggesting that this dynamic has influenced his anti-woke rhetoric. Over the past few years, Musk has shifted from his previously moderate political stance to adopt more right-wing positions on various issues, recently endorsing Republican candidates including former President Donald Trump.