A close friend of Vivian Wilson has broken their silence, publicly condemning Elon Musk’s repeated comments and rhetoric surrounding his transgender daughter. The friend, who has known Vivian since before her transition, spoke candidly in an emotional interview, calling Musk’s remarks “deeply harmful” and “out of touch with the reality of what it means to grow up trans in today’s world.”
Vivian Wilson, born Xavier Musk, legally changed her name and gender identity in 2022, expressing her desire to cut ties with her billionaire father. While Elon Musk has remained largely silent about the legal proceedings, he has made a number of public statements over the years about gender identity, often minimizing or mocking the experiences of trans individuals. In interviews and on X (formerly Twitter), Musk has criticized the use of preferred pronouns, dismissed gender-affirming healthcare, and positioned himself as a critic of what he calls “woke ideology.”
According to Vivian’s friend — who chose to remain anonymous for safety reasons — these statements haven’t just been political, they’ve been personal. “When someone as powerful as Elon Musk talks the way he does, it doesn’t just stay online. It trickles down into how people treat others in real life — including Vivian,” the friend said. “It’s painful watching her fight to be respected, especially when the person attacking her is her own father.”
The friend described Vivian as resilient, intelligent, and quietly strong. They said that despite the media frenzy surrounding her transition, Vivian has tried to stay grounded and focused on building a life for herself outside of the spotlight. “She doesn’t want to be a symbol, she just wants to live in peace,” the friend added.
Many within the LGBTQ+ community have voiced support for Vivian, seeing her story as emblematic of a broader struggle for acceptance and safety. Activists and advocacy groups have pointed out the real-world dangers of high-profile figures dismissing or mocking trans identities, especially when such figures have massive global influence. “Words have consequences,” said one spokesperson from GLAAD. “When Elon Musk mocks pronouns, he’s not just making a joke — he’s contributing to a climate where trans people feel unsafe.”
The rift between father and daughter has sparked a larger conversation about the responsibilities of public figures, especially parents, in supporting the identities and well-being of their children. While Elon Musk continues to dominate headlines for his ventures in technology, space, and social media, this personal and painful family divide casts a shadow over his legacy.
For Vivian Wilson and those who know her, the battle is about more than just a name change or public statements — it’s about being seen, respected, and allowed to live authentically. And while she remains largely silent in the public sphere, those closest to her are speaking up, determined to ensure that her voice is no longer drowned out.
