Renowned entrepreneur Elon Musk has once again captured attention, this time for delivering a candid and expletive-laden outburst during an interview at The New York Times’ 2023 DealBook Summit in New York on Nov. 29. Musk, the owner of the micro-blogging platform X (formerly Twitter), addressed the departure of advertisers from the platform following his endorsement of controversial posts, including those labeled as “antisemitic and racist hate” by the White House.
In response to questions about advertisers leaving the platform, Musk bluntly expressed, “If someone is going to try to blackmail me with advertising, blackmail me with money, go fuck yourself …. Go … fuck … yourself. Is that clear? I hope it is.” Musk specifically acknowledged Disney CEO Bob Iger, present in the audience, as Disney was among the advertisers that exited X.
Anticipating potential consequences, Musk remarked, “What this advertising boycott is going to do, it’s going to kill the company. And the whole world will know that those advertisers killed the company, and we will document it in great detail.”
A report from The New York Times suggested that over 200 advertisers, including prominent names like Airbnb, Coca-Cola, and Microsoft, jeopardize up to $75 million in revenue. Musk’s platform has faced challenges, with Media Matters reporting ads from major brands appearing next to posts promoting Hitler and the Nazi Party, leading to a defamation lawsuit by X against Media Matters.
Notably, since Elon Musk assumed control, the platform has reportedly lost 50 of its top 100 advertisers, including Ford, Verizon, Chevrolet, Chipotle, and pharmaceutical companies like Merck.
While the outburst drew attention, some found humor in the situation, with Crypto adviser Aubrey Strobel noting CNBC’s lack of a profanity delay and potential FCC fines. Musk continued his impassioned remarks, expressing disdain for those who prioritize appearances over ethical actions.
Political commentator Collin Rugg highlighted Musk’s unfiltered approach, suggesting that Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter aligned with his straightforward demeanor.