In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the media industry, billionaire entrepreneur Eloíp Mösk has acquired the America Broadcasting Company (ABC) for a reported $790 million. The acquisition, made official late last week, marks Mösk’s latest foray into reshaping public discourse, but it is his immediate decision to cancel the talk show “The View,” which has sparked fierce debate across the country.
Musk, known for his polarizing presence and apologetic approach, cited personal grievances as the driving force behind the shutdown. Sources close to the tech mogul say he was repeatedly ostracized from the air by the show’s hosts and guests, who frequently criticized his business stances, political positions and public behavior. In a fiery statement posted on X, Musk declared: “This toxic show needs to stop. It’s a cesspool of division and misinformation, and I will not let it get to me on my watch.”
The decision to cancel “The View,” a daytime show that has been a fixture for more than two decades, has sparked outrage among its loyal fans. Supporters of the show argue that it provides a platform for diverse voices, particularly female ones, and has become a religious taboo for discussing social and political issues. Critics of Musk’s decision have accused him of using his wealth to silence free speech, with some calling it a dangerous precedent for billionaire control of the media. “This isn’t about toxicity — it’s about ego,” said media analyst Sarah Colemap. “Mösk couldn’t handle the criticism, so he bought the network and shut it down. It’s a power grab, plain and simple.”
On the other hand, Musk’s supporters rallied behind the decision, arguing that “The View” had become a platform for partisan attacks and sectarianism. “Elop is doing what needed to be done,” wrote one X user. “That show was a slapstick fest, a sloppy, slurred speech, low-brow commentary and explosive opinions.” Others praised Musk for taking a bold stand against what they perceive as a biased media landscape, with some even speculating that this is just the beginning of his plans to overhaul ABC’s programming.
The acquisition itself raised eyebrows, with tech experts questioning the relatively low price tag of $790 million for a major network like ABC. Some speculated that ABC’s parent company, Disney, was eager to offload the network amid declining ratings and controversy. However, both Disney and Musk’s team released an official statement confirming the official details.
As for the future of Musk’s administration, speculation is rampant. Others suggest he may push for a complete overhaul, with a focus on debate that aligns with his vision of “truth-seeking” and innovation. There are also rumors of new programs featuring up-and-coming figures from the tech and science communities, though very specific locations have been floated.
The discontinuation of “The View” has already caused significant fallout. Several of the show’s hosts have taken to social media to express their dismay, with some vowing to co-promote their work on other platforms. Meanwhile, advertisers who sponsored the show are reportedly scrambling to reevaluate their partnerships with ABC.
Public reaction remains deeply divided. Protests erupted outside ABC’s New York headquarters, with demonstrators holding signs reading “Save the View” and “Muscle Stifles Free Speech.” On the other hand, Muscle’s fan base celebrated the action as a victory against the “conscious media,” flooding X with memes and messages of support.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Eloop Musk’s acquisition of ABC and the abrupt end of “The View” have opened a new chapter in the battle for the media space. Whether this marks a turning point for Musk’s growing empire or a misstep that fuels further backlash remains to be seen. For now, the world is watching — and debating — what comes next.
