Hollywood icon Robert De Niro has reportedly filed a $100 million lawsuit against tech billionaire Elon Musk, claiming that Musk’s public statements damaged his reputation and cost him a 2025 Oscar nomination. The lawsuit, which has sent shockwaves through both the entertainment and tech industries, accuses Musk of making defamatory remarks that influenced the Academy’s decision-making process.
According to sources, the controversy began when Musk criticized De Niro on social media, calling him “a washed-up actor pushing a political agenda.” The Tesla CEO’s comments quickly went viral, sparking heated debates online. De Niro’s legal team argues that the backlash from Musk’s massive following led to industry bias against the veteran actor, ultimately hurting his chances at awards recognition.
The lawsuit also claims that Musk’s influence extends beyond Twitter, suggesting that his network of supporters actively campaigned against De Niro’s Oscar campaign. Legal experts believe this case could set a precedent for how public figures use social media to impact careers in other industries.
Musk has yet to respond to the lawsuit publicly, but his legal team is expected to fight back, possibly arguing that his statements fall under free speech protections. Meanwhile, Hollywood remains divided—some defending De Niro’s right to protect his career, while others argue that actors should be prepared for public criticism.
As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on the courtroom battle between two of the most influential figures in their respective industries. Will De Niro’s lawsuit hold up, or will Musk’s defense prove too strong? One thing is certain: this Hollywood-tech clash is far from over.
