Tesla CEO Elon Musk is embroiled in controversy following the publication of a significant report in a prominent US newspaper, accusing the billionaire entrepreneur of serious misconduct, including allegations of sexual harassment. The Wall Street Journal report, based on extensive interviews and document reviews, portrays a troubling picture of Mr. Musk's behavior blurring professional boundaries.
Here are 5 notable disclosures from the report on Elon Musk:
1. Engaging in romantic relationships with employees : The report outlines several instances where Elon Musk initiated personal relationships with female staff members, including a former intern and an engineering colleague. One woman claimed Mr. Musk pursued her romantically, inviting her to his residence and frequently messaging her late at night, which she asserted affected her work.
2. Allegations of sexual harassment : A SpaceX flight attendant alleged that Mr. Musk exposed himself to her and made inappropriate advances, offering gifts in exchange for sexual favors, according to the report. Mr. Musk has denied these allegations, labeling them as "completely false."
3. Requests to employees for parenthood : Another former SpaceX employee claimed Mr. Musk repeatedly asked her to have children with him, which she declined each time. However, he has twins with Shivon Zilis, an executive at his company Neuralink. According to Ms. Zilis, Mr. Musk encouraged her to have children and later offered to be a sperm donor, as reported by the WSJ.
4. Allegations of drug use : The report also addresses concerns raised by former executives and employees regarding Mr. Musk's alleged use of drugs such as LSD, cocaine, and ecstasy. Despite these claims, Mr. Musk's legal team clarified that he undergoes regular random drug testing and has never failed one.
5. Lack of accountability : Former executives and employees alleged that Mr. Musk's leadership style has fostered an environment where complaints are not adequately addressed. While SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell assured thorough investigations of all complaints, the report suggests ongoing challenges in enforcing company policies.
Elon Musk has not directly responded to these specific allegations. This recent controversy follows previous reports by The New York Times revealing an alleged affair between Mr. Musk and Nicole Shanahan, former wife of Google co-founder Sergey Brin. The affair reportedly contributed to Ms. Shanahan's separation from Mr. Brin and subsequent divorce.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from X/Elon Musk.