Elon Musk uses 'the F word' during interview to criticise advertiser
Amidst a storm of controversy, Elon Musk's brazen words signal a pivotal moment for X, as major advertisers cut ties, leaving the platform at a crossroads of survival.
technology
Highlights
- Disney, Apple, and others withdraw ads from X over an alleged anti-semitic post, fueling industry discussions
- Musk faces criticism for endorsing harmful stereotypes, triggering concerns about X's future
In a sensational turn of events, Elon Musk, the enigmatic leader of X (formerly Twitter), has unleashed a fiery tirade against advertisers, daring them to "go f**k themselves." This bold statement reverberated across the industry, intensifying an already strained relationship between Musk and advertisers.
The controversy erupted following a series of major corporations, including Disney and Apple, severing ties with X in response to an alleged anti-Semitic post attributed to Musk.
Elon tells advertisers trying to blackmail him with money spent on advertising "GO FU*K YOURSELF!"@elonmusk is man who speaks to the heart of every Free Thinking-Free Speech enthusiast on the planet!
— Jake Angeli-Chansley (@AmericaShaman) November 30, 2023
I 2nd THAT Motion Elon!
How do you feel about what he said & is doing? pic.twitter.com/bgHjvaj9wM
Musk's unapologetic stand: "Blackmail me with money? Go f**k yourself!"
Speaking at the New York Times DealBook Summit, Musk defiantly addressed advertisers attempting to exert influence through financial leverage. "If somebody is going to try to blackmail me with advertising, blackmail me with money, go f**k yourself. Is that clear? I hope it is," Musk declared, his words echoing with unmistakable defiance.
In a direct nod to Disney CEO Bob Iger, present at the summit, Musk underscored his sentiment, dismissing the notion of compromise in the face of financial pressure.
The Fallout & Musk's regrettable stance on anti-semitism
The repercussions of Musk's controversial statements were swift and far-reaching. A cascade of renowned companies, from Disney to IBM, Apple, Comcast, Lionsgate, NBCUniversal, Paramount, and Warner Bros., joined the advertising exodus from X.
This mass withdrawal, triggered by Musk's alleged anti-Semitic post, has sparked a wider debate on the ethical responsibilities of tech leaders and the impact of their actions on corporate partnerships.
Earlier this month, Musk found himself entangled in another controversy when he endorsed a post perpetuating harmful stereotypes about Jewish people. The ensuing condemnation, including criticism from the Joe Biden-led White House, labelled Musk's actions as an "abhorrent promotion of anti-Semitic and racist hate."
The confluence of these events has cast a shadow over Musk's leadership and raises pressing questions about the future trajectory of X amidst a rapidly escalating crisis.
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