Elon Musk’s 18-year-old daughter, formerly known as Xavier Alexander Musk, has made headlines after legally changing her name to Vivian Jenna Wilson. Along with the name change, she has also formally declared that she wants no connection to her billionaire father. The news has shocked many and sparked discussions about the hidden corners of the Musk family dynamic.
Vivian, who recently reached the age of legal consent in California, filed for a name and gender change earlier this year. She has chosen to take her mother’s maiden name, Wilson, instead of retaining Musk’s surname. The legal petition stated her reason clearly: “I no longer live with or wish to be related to my biological father in any way, shape, or form.” This revelation stands in contrast to Musk’s recent Father’s Day tweet, in which he expressed love for all of his children.
The petition has ignited conversations online, with many questioning Musk’s relationship with his children. One social media user noted, “The fact that someone would disown their billionaire father says a lot about him.” While Musk has yet to comment publicly on his daughter’s decision, the situation sheds light on the complexities within his family.
Vivian is one of five children Musk shares with his first wife, Canadian author Justine Musk. The couple, who were married from 2000 to 2008, had twins Griffin and Vivian in 2004 via in vitro fertilization. They also have triplets, Damian, Saxon, and Kai, born in 2006. Their first child, Nevada Alexander Musk, tragically passed away as an infant in 2002.
Following their divorce, Justine Musk wrote a revealing article titled “I Was a Starter Wife” for Marie Claire, detailing her difficult marriage with Musk. She described him as controlling, referring to himself as “the alpha in this relationship.” Recently, Justine shared a heartfelt yet indirect message on Twitter about her daughter’s transition: “My 18-year-old said to me, ‘I had a weird childhood. I can’t believe I’m as normal-seeming as I am.’ I said, ‘I’m very proud of you.’ They replied, ‘I’m proud of myself!’”
Vivian’s decision also highlights the ideological divide between her and her father. Musk has made various statements regarding the LGBTQ+ community, claiming to support trans rights while simultaneously dismissing gender pronouns as “an esthetic nightmare.” He has also voiced support for conservative politicians like Ron DeSantis, who has pushed legislation limiting LGBTQ+ rights. These stances have raised concerns about Musk’s views, especially in light of his transgender daughter’s recent announcement.
Vivian attended Astra Nova School, a private institution founded by Musk for his children and employees’ kids. The exclusive school, located on the SpaceX compound, focuses on science, engineering, and AI-based education but does not follow a traditional grading system.
As one of the world’s most influential figures, Musk’s family matters continue to captivate public attention. While he remains silent on Vivian’s decision, the young woman’s bold step has ignited discussions on the challenges of growing up in a high-profile family and the importance of unconditional parental support.