The View’s Co-Hosts Face Backlash for Mocking Elon Musk’s Son
During an episode of ABC’s “The View” on Thursday, February 13, the co-hosts stirred controversy after ridiculing Elon Musk’s 4-year-old son, X Æ A-XII. The discussion, originally focused on Musk’s involvement in a televised briefing with President Trump, quickly took a sharp turn when the co-hosts began mocking the young boy’s name.
The segment revolved around a press conference held in the Oval Office, where Musk and President Trump discussed fraud and waste discovered by the Department of Government Efficiency. Musk’s son, whom he affectionately calls “Lil X,” was present at the event, sitting quietly on the floor near the desk. However, instead of focusing on the briefing’s content, the panelists of “The View” seized the opportunity to make fun of the child’s unique name.
Whoopi Goldberg initiated the discussion by stating, “Yeah, so yesterday, Elon Musk took his son X to a press conference —” before being interrupted by co-host Joy Behar, who interjected with a confused, “X?” Goldberg, shaking her head in mock disapproval, responded sarcastically, “I did not name the child.”
Behar, still puzzled by the boy’s name, asked again, “That’s the kid’s name?” Goldberg, whose real name is Caryn Elaine Johnson, shot back with, “And I don’t want to hear any more mess about our names. Okay?” She then attempted to continue, saying, “Anyhoo, he took little X —” before Behar, in a mocking tone, quipped, “And little Instagram.”
As Sarah Haines chimed in to clarify that Musk does not own Instagram, Goldberg shifted her focus to criticize Musk for bringing his son to the event. She remarked, “He doesn’t own Instagram, he just took Lil X with him. To a press conference in the Oval Office to defend himself against critics who say he should not have the power to gut the federal agency.”
The segment quickly drew criticism from viewers and social media users, many of whom condemned the co-hosts for targeting a child. Critics argued that while public figures like Musk often face scrutiny, dragging an innocent child into the discussion was both inappropriate and mean-spirited.
Supporters of Musk defended his decision to bring his son to the briefing, highlighting the significance of family in his life. Many pointed out that numerous politicians and public figures have taken their children to official events without facing similar ridicule.
This incident is not the first time “The View” has sparked controversy with its commentary on public figures and their families. The show’s panelists, known for their outspoken and often divisive opinions, have previously faced backlash for remarks that many consider to be in poor taste.
As the discussion surrounding this segment continues, critics are calling for more accountability from television hosts when discussing public figures and their families. While satire and critique are expected in media discussions, many argue that a line should be drawn when it comes to children who have no involvement in political affairs.
The View’s Co-Hosts Face Backlash for Mocking Elon Musk’s Son
During an episode of ABC’s “The View” on Thursday, February 13, the co-hosts stirred controversy after ridiculing Elon Musk’s 4-year-old son, X Æ A-XII. The discussion, originally focused on Musk’s involvement in a televised briefing with President Trump, quickly took a sharp turn when the co-hosts began mocking the young boy’s name.
The segment revolved around a press conference held in the Oval Office, where Musk and President Trump discussed fraud and waste discovered by the Department of Government Efficiency. Musk’s son, whom he affectionately calls “Lil X,” was present at the event, sitting quietly on the floor near the desk. However, instead of focusing on the briefing’s content, the panelists of “The View” seized the opportunity to make fun of the child’s unique name.
Whoopi Goldberg initiated the discussion by stating, “Yeah, so yesterday, Elon Musk took his son X to a press conference —” before being interrupted by co-host Joy Behar, who interjected with a confused, “X?” Goldberg, shaking her head in mock disapproval, responded sarcastically, “I did not name the child.”
Behar, still puzzled by the boy’s name, asked again, “That’s the kid’s name?” Goldberg, whose real name is Caryn Elaine Johnson, shot back with, “And I don’t want to hear any more mess about our names. Okay?” She then attempted to continue, saying, “Anyhoo, he took little X —” before Behar, in a mocking tone, quipped, “And little Instagram.”
As Sarah Haines chimed in to clarify that Musk does not own Instagram, Goldberg shifted her focus to criticize Musk for bringing his son to the event. She remarked, “He doesn’t own Instagram, he just took Lil X with him. To a press conference in the Oval Office to defend himself against critics who say he should not have the power to gut the federal agency.”
The segment quickly drew criticism from viewers and social media users, many of whom condemned the co-hosts for targeting a child. Critics argued that while public figures like Musk often face scrutiny, dragging an innocent child into the discussion was both inappropriate and mean-spirited.
Supporters of Musk defended his decision to bring his son to the briefing, highlighting the significance of family in his life. Many pointed out that numerous politicians and public figures have taken their children to official events without facing similar ridicule.
This incident is not the first time “The View” has sparked controversy with its commentary on public figures and their families. The show’s panelists, known for their outspoken and often divisive opinions, have previously faced backlash for remarks that many consider to be in poor taste.
As the discussion surrounding this segment continues, critics are calling for more accountability from television hosts when discussing public figures and their families. While satire and critique are expected in media discussions, many argue that a line should be drawn when it comes to children who have no involvement in political affairs.
Social Media Reactions and Support for Musk
While the segment on “The View” was widely criticized for its tone, social media responses painted a more positive picture of Musk and his relationship with his son. Actor William Shatner, for instance, responded to a video of Musk with his son by humorously stating, “Is that one of your young engineers that work for DOGE? I did hear that you hire young but this is something else! 😉 #adorable.”
Another social media user added a thoughtful perspective, saying, “That little guy and others his age actually stand to benefit the most from any reduction of debt this generation makes. Let’s not pass the debt on to them!”
Will Cain also took a lighthearted approach, joking about Musk’s decision to bring his son to the press conference. He remarked, “Personally I think we should trust a guy to find waste and fraud who doesn’t even spend on a babysitter. @elonmusk.”
Many commenters agreed, praising Musk’s ability to manage his responsibilities while still making time for his son. One user wrote, “I see a man who can focus on details of our government’s mishandling of our money. He also is able to focus on his other businesses. Plus he is able to stay calm with his son on his shoulders and playing with his hair. I love seeing a man proud of his children.”
Another commenter emphasized Musk’s hands-on approach to parenting, saying, “One of the most endearing characteristics of @elonmusk is that he wants to be with and influence his child’s life view himself, not leave X with a babysitter. So I say, bravo to this man on yet another level!”
Despite the criticism from mainstream media, Musk’s supporters have rallied around him, appreciating the strong bond he shares with his son and his ability to balance fatherhood with his many responsibilities.
Luca Rossi is an experienced writer based in the United States, specializing in popular topics and curiosity-driven content. With six years of expertise, he contributes regularly to usaunfiltered24.com, where he creates engaging articles, in-depth features, and fascinating insights on trending stories and celebrity culture. Known for his captivating writing style and thorough research, Luca has established himself as a go-to source for content that sparks curiosity and resonates with a wide audience. His passion for uncovering intriguing stories and his keen eye for the latest trends have made him a trusted voice in the world of popular entertainment and current affairs.