Elon Musk’s mom Maye Musk defends him against criticism in 'mainstream media': “It is really hard to cope with hateful headlines when..."

Elon Musk, the CEO of companies including Tesla, SpaceX and X, has frequently been the subject of public debate and media reports. Critics have questioned his business choices, his role in social media policy, and his political ties in the last few years. Mainstream media, social media discussions, and commentaries often talk about these issues. People around the world support and criticise them.

In February 2026, Maye Musk, Elon Musk's mother, publicly defended her son against what she called unfair coverage and "extreme negativity" from some news outlets. Maye Musk, who has a sizable following on the social media platform X, posted a message on February 19 highlighting her reaction to ongoing criticism of Elon Musk’s actions and achievements, especially in technology and business. Her comments drew attention because of her long-standing public profile as a dietitian, author and former international model. Throughout her life, she has also authored books on health and her own memoir.




The post came out during bigger talks about how Elon Musk affects business, technology, and public conversation. People all over the world, including in the United States, are still talking about and paying attention to Musk's leadership of well-known companies and his presence on social media.

Maye Musk’s message defends Elon Musk on social media

On X (formerly Twitter), Maye Musk wrote that she has been aware of negative and what she described as “dishonesty and extreme negativity” in mainstream media coverage for many years. She said that it was difficult to cope with what she termed “hateful headlines” while citing her son’s accomplishments around the world. Maye Musk also mentioned in her post that she recently finished writing another book that, according to her, includes content about her past interactions with news outlets and journalists. She expressed approval of Elon Musk’s decision to purchase Twitter and rename it X, a move she said made her “happy” every day.



Maye Musk’s statement did not include specific examples of news coverage she was referring to, but reflects her view on how some critics have described her son’s work.

Media and public reactions on Maye Musk's X post

Maye Musk’s post continues a pattern seen with public figures’ family members engaging in discussions about media coverage. Her message showed support for her son and criticism of some media stories, but it also showed how famous people and their families react to public discussion in the digital age.

People on different social media sites had different things to say about her post. Many people shared their own thoughts on the media coverage, Elon Musk's leadership, and Maye Musk's comments. Like with a lot of posts from famous people, some people agreed with them and others disagreed.

About Maye Musk

Maye Musk, 77, is a Canadian-born model and registered dietitian. She has had a long career in modelling and health, and she has published books in both areas. Her memoir, A Woman Makes a Plan: Advice for a Lifetime of Adventure, Beauty, and Success, was published in 2019. She has also been active on social media, where she shares her own views on a range of topics and engages with a large audience.

Her public defence of her son adds to a history of her speaking in support of him. In previous years, she has praised Elon Musk’s work and influence in technology, and the two have appeared together at public events.