Maye Musk on raising the world's first trillionaire: Elon "just wants to do good" but steps "on a lot of toes"

September 16, 2026 / 12:25 PM EDT / CBS News

Maye Musk on raising the world's first trillionaire: Elon "just wants to do good" but steps "on a lot of toes"

TL;DR

  • Maye Musk believes her son Elon, who she calls a genius, intends to do good but is often treated unfairly by the public.
  • She stated that Elon's actions are for the best of America and the world, referencing his goal of going to Mars.
  • Elon Musk faced criticism during his time leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and after publicly disagreeing with Donald Trump.
  • Maye Musk detailed her past abusive marriage and her escape with her children to Canada, where she rebuilt her life as a dietitian.
  • Despite financial hardship, her children did not complain, later buying her an apartment in New York City.
  • Maye Musk achieved significant success as a model in her 70s, becoming an iconic figure and the oldest woman featured on the cover of 'Sports Illustrated' in 2022.
  • She views aging as gaining wisdom and the ability to confidently pursue opportunities.