Errol Musk, the 79-year-old father of tech billionaire Elon Musk, is facing serious sexual abuse allegations from his children and stepchildren, spanning decades and prompting renewed scrutiny of one of the most high-profile families in the world.
According to reports, the allegations date back to 1993, when Errol Musk’s four-year-old stepdaughter told relatives he had touched her at the family home.
“I didn’t understand at the time what kind of person he was,” Elon Musk later told Rolling Stone, reflecting on his difficult relationship with his father. “My dad will have a carefully thought-out plan of evil. He will plan evil.”
The New York Times reported that Errol Musk allegedly abused five of his children and stepchildren, including touching, coercion, and disturbing behaviors over the years. A decade after the initial accusation, the same stepdaughter reportedly caught him sniffing her dirty underwear, while other family members accused him of abusing two daughters and a stepson.
Three separate law enforcement investigations were opened, though two ended without action, and the outcome of the third remains unclear.
These claims are supported by court records, personal letters, emails, social workers’ reports, and interviews with family members, illustrating a deeply troubling pattern of abuse within the family.
Errol Musk has publicly dismissed the allegations, calling them “nonsense” and “false” in statements to the New York Times. He accused family members of extortion, claiming they were “putting the children up to say false things” and attempting to manipulate Elon Musk.
“There was no evidence because this is nonsense,” he said, defending himself against the multiple claims. Despite these denials, family members describe him as maintaining “a powerful grip over much of the family,” with influence that has affected relationships for decades.
Elon Musk himself has rarely commented publicly on his father, though in interviews he has described the relationship as deeply troubling. In a 2017 Rolling Stone profile, Musk admitted that he went to live with Errol at age ten, leaving his younger siblings with their mother.
“I felt sorry for my father, because my mother had all three kids. He seemed very sad and lonely by himself. So I thought, ‘I can be company,’” he said. “It was not a good idea. I didn’t really understand at the time what kind of person he was … My dad will have a carefully thought-out plan of evil. He will plan evil.” These candid remarks underscore a complex dynamic of empathy, fear, and the long-term impact of alleged abuse.
The alleged abuse has had far-reaching effects within the Musk family. Family members have reportedly reached out for help over the years, sometimes prompting Elon Musk to intercede. Observers say this may explain why Musk rarely references his father publicly or discusses him in detail.
Despite Elon’s public achievements and high-profile career, including a temporary advisory role in the second Trump administration, the shadow of these allegations appears to have shaped both his personal and public life.
Legal analysts and child advocacy specialists stress the seriousness of sexual abuse allegations, particularly when they involve a powerful figure in a high-profile family.
“When allegations involve prominent individuals, there is often a complex mix of power, influence, and secrecy,” said a legal expert. “It’s essential that investigators pursue every lead while ensuring victims’ voices are heard and protected.”
These cases are notoriously difficult to navigate, especially when some investigations ended without formal charges despite corroborating testimonies.
The New York Times report also revealed disturbing details of Errol Musk’s behavior over the years, citing personal correspondence and interviews with family members.
These documents suggest that Errol has exercised control over his family in ways that some relatives describe as coercive and manipulative. “He maintains a powerful grip over much of the family,” the report said, highlighting both emotional and psychological dimensions of the alleged abuse.
Public reaction to the allegations has been intense, with social media and media outlets debating the implications of the claims. Advocates for victims emphasize that wealth, fame, or public profile should not shield perpetrators from accountability.
“Children and stepchildren deserve protection, regardless of family prominence,” said a child advocacy specialist. “It is crucial that both legal authorities and society take these allegations seriously.”
Mental health professionals note that survivors of sexual abuse often endure lasting trauma, affecting emotional wellbeing, relationships, and personal development. Speaking publicly can be a form of reclaiming agency and empowerment.
One alleged victim reportedly said, “We cannot stay silent any longer. Sharing our story is the first step toward justice and healing, and it may protect other children from experiencing similar abuse.”
Despite the seriousness of the claims, authorities have not yet confirmed any ongoing legal action or convictions. The Musk family has reportedly been grappling with the emotional and legal implications privately, while facing intense public scrutiny.
Friends of the family describe the situation as “devastating,” noting that it affects not just the victims but the broader family network. “This is about accountability, truth, and protection of the vulnerable,” one family friend said.
Observers highlight that sexual abuse allegations in high-profile families attract both media attention and public speculation, which can complicate proceedings and add pressure to the victims.
Experts caution against sensationalism, emphasizing the need for careful reporting and ethical handling of sensitive information. “The priority must always be the wellbeing of the alleged victims,” said a journalist covering abuse cases. “Speculation can retraumatize survivors and obscure the pursuit of justice.”
Errol Musk has previously been married three times and has at least nine children and stepchildren, according to reports. Multiple family members say the pattern of alleged abuse has created enduring emotional strain and fractured relationships. Some have indicated that Elon Musk’s rare interventions on behalf of other family members reflect the ongoing complexity and gravity of the situation.
The allegations and the public discussion surrounding them also raise broader societal questions about accountability, the challenges of confronting abuse within families, and the responsibility of legal authorities to investigate claims thoroughly.
Advocates argue that high-profile cases should not be treated differently because of wealth or influence. “No one should be above the law, and children’s safety must always come first,” said a child protection advocate.
As the situation develops, the Musk family remains under close observation by the media and public alike. The combination of alleged sexual abuse, the prominence of the family, and Elon Musk’s global profile ensures that this story will continue to attract scrutiny.
Observers emphasize the importance of due process, victim support, and careful handling of the case to balance transparency with protection of the survivors.
For the alleged victims, coming forward represents both courage and a crucial step toward accountability. Their willingness to speak publicly underscores the emotional toll of the alleged abuse while highlighting the need for systemic attention. “This is about truth, justice, and ensuring no child suffers in silence,” an advocate said. “The world is watching, and the voices of the victims must be heard and respected.”
Elon Musk’s rare public reflections on his father, combined with family testimonies and documented allegations, paint a complex portrait of power, influence, and familial trauma.
“I felt sorry for my father, because my mother had all three kids. He seemed very sad and lonely by himself. So I thought, ‘I can be company,’” Musk said, recalling his childhood experience. “It was not a good idea. I didn’t really understand at the time what kind of person he was.”
The statements illustrate a mix of empathy, fear, and recognition of the lasting impact of the alleged abuse, highlighting the emotional complexity at the heart of the story.
The allegations against Errol Musk remain a serious matter of public and legal interest, reflecting broader conversations about abuse, accountability, and family responsibility in high-profile households.
As authorities and the family navigate the unfolding situation, the focus remains on protecting victims, ensuring justice, and understanding the long-term ramifications of such allegations on both individuals and the wider Musk family network.
