In a dramatic moment on The View, Whoopi Goldberg did not hold back when she called tech mogul Elon Musk a “scumbag” during a lively discussion on the show. The heated exchange came as the co-hosts were debating Musk’s recent actions and controversial public statements, particularly regarding his role as the CEO of X (formerly Twitter) and his various political stances.
The conversation started when the panel was discussing the ongoing influence of tech billionaires on public discourse, with Musk being a focal point due to his polarizing presence on social media. Goldberg, known for her outspoken opinions, was quick to voice her criticism. “Elon Musk is a scumbag,” she said, as the studio audience gasped. The remark came after she addressed his tendency to provoke controversy online and some of his decisions that many believe have contributed to the decline in Twitter’s reputation since he took over the platform.
Goldberg’s comment, however, was not just a random outburst. It was the culmination of a broader critique regarding Musk’s actions, which have stirred strong reactions from various sectors. From his handling of Twitter’s policies to his statements about artificial intelligence, Musk has been at the center of much debate in recent years. Goldberg’s comment on The View reflected the growing frustration from those who view Musk’s leadership style and public behavior as problematic.
Musk’s response to Goldberg’s direct attack came hours later, in a way that stunned the entire studio. Instead of firing back with anger or more insults, Musk responded with an unexpectedly calm and collected message on social media. He posted a simple tweet: “Whoopi is a special person.” This response left many scratching their heads, as it seemed to be both a subtle deflection and a nod to the complexity of his relationship with critics.
Musk’s tweet quickly went viral, drawing both praise and confusion from his supporters and critics alike. Some interpreted his response as an example of Musk’s ability to rise above petty insults, while others saw it as an attempt to downplay the tension and avoid further conflict. His ability to remain composed in the face of public criticism, particularly from a well-known figure like Goldberg, caught many by surprise, given his history of combative reactions on social media.
The contrast between Goldberg’s fiery remark and Musk’s composed response created a moment of intense discussion across social media. People were quick to weigh in, with some praising Musk for maintaining his cool, while others criticized him for not defending himself more forcefully. It also raised questions about the future of celebrity and public figures’ relationships with the media and their critics. Musk, who has repeatedly used Twitter to engage with his followers and voice his opinions, seemed to show a different side in this instance.
Goldberg, for her part, didn’t seem to back down from her stance on the matter. As the conversation on The View continued, she clarified her comments, stating that she believed Musk’s actions have had a negative impact on free speech and public trust. She also emphasized that her remark was not a personal attack, but rather a critique of his behavior and influence in the tech world.
This exchange between Goldberg and Musk highlights the ongoing tension between public figures, particularly in the age of social media, where opinions are shared instantly and can quickly escalate. As the discussion about Musk’s influence continues to unfold, it is clear that his actions will remain under intense scrutiny, with figures like Whoopi Goldberg not shying away from holding him accountable in the public eye.
Whether Musk’s calm response will shift the narrative in his favor remains to be seen, but for now, it has only added fuel to the ongoing debate about his role as one of the most influential yet divisive figures in the world of technology and public discourse.