In a bold statement sparking widespread debate, tech billionaire Elon Musk has called for a public boycott of the ABC Network, urging his supporters and followers to “take ’em down.” Musk’s comment, which was shared on his social media platform X (formerly Twitter), immediately set off a firestorm of reactions, drawing support from some and criticism from others.
Musk’s frustration with ABC appears to stem from a series of reports and segments he views as unfairly critical of him and his companies. ABC has recently aired coverage examining the controversies surrounding Musk, including his management style at X, as well as issues related to Tesla and SpaceX. Musk, in turn, has voiced dissatisfaction with what he perceives as biased media narratives, previously speaking out against major networks and calling for “greater media accountability.”
The hashtag #BoycottABC began trending soon after Musk’s call to action, with many of his followers expressing support for his stance, sharing complaints about perceived media bias, and pledging to avoid the network’s content. Others, however, view the boycott call as an overreaction, arguing that freedom of the press is essential and that Musk, as a powerful public figure, should not stoke anti-media sentiment.
Some experts have weighed in, suggesting that Musk’s influence, combined with his willingness to take on major media outlets, could have notable consequences for ABC. In an era when streaming services are already challenging traditional networks, any loss in viewership could impact ratings and revenue for legacy media companies.
Musk’s latest comments add fuel to a broader conversation around public figures, media relations, and the role of social platforms in influencing public perception. As of now, ABC has not issued an official response to Musk’s call for a boycott, and it remains to be seen whether this will develop into a more significant standoff between the influential CEO and the media giant.
