In a dramatic turn of events, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has initiated a defamation lawsuit against Joy Behar, co-host of ABC’s popular daytime talk show, The View.

The lawsuit, filed in California on March 20, 2025, seeks a staggering $70 million in damages, claiming that Behar and the show’s producers made “false and malicious” statements about Musk that have severely harmed his personal and professional reputation.

This legal confrontation highlights the escalating tensions between influential figures in the media and the tech industry, raising important questions about free speech, accountability, and the impact of public commentary on individual reputations.

The controversy erupted following comments made by Behar during a recent episode of The View.

In a heated discussion regarding Musk’s growing influence in political and economic spheres, Behar described him as “pro-apartheid” and an “enemy of the United States.”

These remarks were particularly incendiary, suggesting that Musk’s upbringing in South Africa during the apartheid era influenced his worldview in a negative way.

Behar stated, “He was born under apartheid in South Africa, so he has that mentality going on—he was pro-apartheid, as I understand it.”

Musk’s legal team contends that such statements are not only baseless but also inflammatory, designed to tarnish his character.

They pointed out that Behar later attempted to soften her remarks by admitting on air, “I don’t really know for sure if he was,” followed by a joking comment, “So don’t be suing me, okay, Elon?”

However, Musk’s attorneys argue that this backtracking does not mitigate the initial harm caused by her comments.

They assert that Behar’s statements were made with “malicious intent,” aiming to damage Musk’s reputation given the extensive reach of her platform.

The lawsuit emphasizes that the $70 million figure reflects the serious harm inflicted on Musk’s public image and the potential repercussions for his various business ventures, including Tesla, SpaceX, and X Corp.

“Ms. Behar and The View knowingly broadcast falsehoods to millions of viewers, portraying Mr. Musk as a supporter of a racist regime and a threat to American values—accusations that are demonstrably untrue,” the lawsuit states.

This case raises significant issues about the responsibilities of media personalities and the potential consequences of their public statements.

Musk, who was born in Pretoria, South Africa, in 1971, has previously discussed his childhood but has never publicly endorsed apartheid.

His family has consistently refuted any claims linking them to the ideology of apartheid.

Musk’s mother, Maye Musk, once emphasized on social media that opposing apartheid during that time could lead to imprisonment, indicating that the family navigated a complex political landscape rather than supporting it.

The lawsuit cites this context to argue that Behar’s comments ignored the historical nuances surrounding apartheid and fabricated a narrative for sensationalist purposes.

Reactions to the lawsuit have been swift and varied, igniting a firestorm of commentary across social media platforms.

Supporters of Musk have rallied behind him, labeling Behar’s remarks as “disgraceful” and calling for accountability from the media.

Many have taken to X (formerly Twitter), urging Musk to pursue legal action against what they perceive as slanderous statements.

Conversely, critics argue that the lawsuit represents an attempt to suppress free expression.

“Joy Behar was giving an opinion, not stating a legal fact—suing over this is absurd,” one user posted, reflecting a broader concern about the implications of such legal actions for public discourse.

Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this case may hinge on whether Behar’s statements can be classified as protected opinion under U.S. law or if they cross into the realm of defamation by presenting unverifiable assertions as truth.

For Behar and The View, the stakes are significantly high.

The 82-year-old comedian is known for her sharp commentary and has faced controversies throughout her career, but a $70 million lawsuit from one of the world’s wealthiest individuals presents a new level of challenge.

While neither Behar nor ABC has issued an official statement regarding the lawsuit, sources close to the show indicate that producers are preparing a robust defense.

They may argue that Behar’s on-air retraction of her statements could mitigate any potential damage.

However, a loss in this case could set a precedent that chills outspoken commentary on public figures, raising concerns about the implications for freedom of speech in the media.

Musk, who is no stranger to legal battles or public feuds, appears resolute in his pursuit of justice.

The demand for $70 million is not merely about financial compensation; it serves as a powerful statement against what he perceives as a deliberate attempt to misrepresent his character.

“They are lying about me,” Musk reportedly stated in the legal filing, echoing his past frustrations with media portrayals.

As the case unfolds, it promises to be a high-profile showdown, pitting a tech titan against a television stalwart in a battle over truth, reputation, and the power of words.

Court proceedings are expected to commence in the coming weeks, with the eyes of the nation—and indeed the world—keenly focused on the developments.

The implications of this lawsuit extend beyond Musk and Behar, touching on broader themes of media ethics, public accountability, and the responsibilities of those who wield influence over public opinion.

As both sides prepare for what could be a lengthy legal battle, the outcomes may redefine the boundaries of televised commentary and the extent to which public figures can be held accountable for their statements.

Musk’s determination to press forward with the lawsuit reflects a growing trend among public figures to challenge perceived injustices in the media landscape.

In an era where social media amplifies voices and opinions, the intersection of celebrity culture and media commentary becomes increasingly complex.

This case serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of public statements and the importance of accuracy in media reporting.

As the legal proceedings advance, the stakes remain high for all parties involved.

For Musk, this lawsuit represents a critical moment in his ongoing battle against what he perceives as misrepresentation and defamation.

For Behar and The View, it poses a significant challenge to their established practices of commentary and opinion-sharing.

Ultimately, the outcome of this case could have lasting implications for the relationship between public figures and the media, shaping the future of discourse in a rapidly evolving information landscape.

As the world watches, the unfolding drama between Elon Musk and Joy Behar promises to be a defining moment in the intersection of celebrity, media, and the law.

The implications of this lawsuit will likely resonate far beyond the courtroom, influencing how public figures engage with the media and how the media, in turn, navigates the complexities of reporting on influential personalities.

In the end, this high-stakes legal battle encapsulates the ongoing struggle for truth and accountability in a world where words carry immense power.