As tech mogul Elon Musk celebrates his 54th birthday, he finds himself at the center of one of the most eventful and controversial years of his personal and professional life. The founder of Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and X (formerly Twitter) has made headlines not only for innovation but also for expanding his family, engaging in public disputes, and facing growing scrutiny over his behavior and health.
A Growing Family and Complex Personal Life
This past year, Musk’s ever-expanding family has attracted significant public attention. The billionaire now has at least 14 children with multiple women, including six with his first wife Justine Musk (one of whom died in infancy), three with musician Grimes, two with Neuralink executive Shivon Zilis, and at least one more with writer Ashley St. Clair.
Musk, who has been outspoken about population decline, even donated $10 million to support research promoting population growth. However, not all is harmonious behind the scenes. Reports have surfaced of ongoing custody disputes, particularly with Grimes, who has criticized him for exposing their child “X” during public outings, which she claims violated their agreements.
Political Feuds and Public Backlash
Musk hasn’t shied away from stirring controversy on the political stage. One of the year’s most high-profile feuds was with former U.S. President Donald Trump, whom Musk criticized for past policies and accused of disloyalty. Trump retaliated with personal attacks and threats to terminate government contracts with Musk’s companies.
Musk’s behavior at political events has also come under fire. At one conservative gathering, he was seen making questionable gestures and symbolically using a chainsaw to represent cutting red tape—actions that sparked outrage across the political spectrum.
Reports of Drug Use and Erratic Behavior
Explosive investigative reports have claimed that Musk has used ketamine, MDMA (ecstasy), and psychedelics, along with a mix of prescription medications. Sources alleged that these substances were used during high-pressure political and business engagements, and may have contributed to erratic behavior on social media and in public appearances.
His father, Errol Musk, downplayed the reports, attributing Elon’s actions to stress and fatigue rather than substance misuse.
Criticism from Former Allies
Several former associates and public figures have distanced themselves from Musk. Philosopher and neuroscientist Sam Harris publicly condemned his behavior, accusing Musk of abandoning ethical principles and using X to defame critics and former friends.
Despite the controversies, Musk remains a dominant force in global technology and business. He continues to lead key ventures in artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, space travel, and social media, commanding both loyal followers and fierce critics.
