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The Fashion Central
The Fashion Central
Joe Anderson

Elon Musk responds to Billie Eilish’s Criticism of his Wealth 'She’s not the sharpest tool in the shed'

(Photographer: Anna Rose Layden/Politico/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Billie Eilish has stirred a fresh wave of discussion about the obligations of extreme wealth after publicly criticizing Elon Musk for not using more of his fortune to support humanitarian causes. Her comments surfaced shortly after reports suggested Musk could become the world’s first trillionaire, a projection that renewed interest in how the world’s richest individuals spend their money.

Eilish shared posts on Instagram featuring infographics from the activist group My Voice My Choice. The graphics outlined how Musk’s growing net worth could hypothetically fund global needs such as ending world hunger, expanding access to clean water, and protecting endangered species.

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Alongside the images, she wrote on November 13, 2025, “If you are a billionaire, why are you a billionaire? No hate, but give your money away, shorties.” Her post included explicit language and referenced Musk’s rising financial status.

Five days later, Musk responded on X. Reposting a fan account that shared Eilish’s criticism, he wrote, “She’s not the sharpest tool in the shed.” His remark intensified debate across social media.

Reactions on X were divided. Supporters of Eilish praised her for speaking up, with one user writing, “Team Eilish 💯 why are billionaires still doing nothing?” Another added, “Musk being defensive again — stand your ground, Billie.” Others defended Musk, arguing that his wealth did not obligate him to follow any particular philanthropic model. One user wrote, “Let’s not pretend billionaires owe us everything overnight.”

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Eilish has a history of supporting social and environmental causes. Reports say she donated US$11.5 million from her Hit Me Hard and Soft tour to climate and food equity efforts. Her activism has often resonated with younger audiences who view celebrity influence as a tool for social accountability.

Musk, known for high-profile ventures like SpaceX and Tesla, has faced long-standing scrutiny over his approach to philanthropy. While his companies have contributed to various initiatives, critics often argue that his giving does not match the scale of his wealth. Supporters counter that his investments in technology and infrastructure serve broader societal goals.

The exchange between the singer and the tech billionaire has now fueled a broader conversation about the ethics of wealth accumulation and the moral expectations placed on billionaires. Their brief but pointed interaction reflects ongoing public debate over inequality, corporate responsibility, and the social impact of extraordinary personal fortunes.

As the conversation continues, Eilish’s remarks highlight growing cultural pressure on the ultra-wealthy to demonstrate transparency and accountability, while Musk’s response underscores resistance to the idea that wealth automatically comes with public obligations.

Billie Eilish: 'If you're a billionaire, why are you a billionaire?'
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