The split alters a dynamic that combined shared projects at the brain-computer interface company with a family that grew to include twins born in 2021 followed by two additional children.
Shivon Zilis Announces the Split on X
Zilis disclosed the end of the relationship in a post on X, describing an abrupt transition without prior warning. The post appeared in response to an automated bot that detected Musk no longer follows her account on the platform. She wrote that it is difficult to go from being in love to letting go in a week without warning, but noted that is how it happens sometimes.
Despite the abrupt end, Zilis expressed gratitude for her time with Musk. She stated that she wanted him to experience being deeply understood, nurtured, and peacefully loved with stability and gentleness, noting his tumultuous childhood and demanding work schedule across multiple technological ventures. She said she loved him “more than life” and that he taught her knowledge for another 100 lifetimes. Zilis described their home as a safe place of happiness and love rather than war, providing a balance to the billionaire’s stressful daily life.
Yale Graduate Welcomes Four Children with Musk
She is a Yale graduate originally from Canada who initially connected with Musk as a friend before their family grew. Her professional background includes roles at Tesla and OpenAI.
The couple welcomed twins, Strider and Azure, in 2021 through in vitro fertilization while Musk was involved with Canadian musician Grimes. Court documents revealed the arrangement the following year when Zilis added Musk’s surname to the children. A third child, Arcadia, was born in February 2024, followed later by a fourth boy named Seldon Lycurgus. Although they did not live together permanently, Musk frequently stayed at her home in Austin.
Text Messages and Recent Communications
Zilis shared screenshots of recent text messages between herself and Musk alongside her announcement. In the messages, Musk offered an apology for not inviting her to an official dinner with Chinese President Xi Jinping because he realized too late that the invitation extended to partners. The screenshots also showed that the two had exchanged “I love you” messages just days prior.
Zilis had previously accompanied Musk to meetings with government officials, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Professional Future at Neuralink
The personal separation will not alter professional ties at Neuralink, where Zilis maintains her executive role. Zilis stated that she intends to maintain good co-parenting relations and expressed ongoing support for Musk’s happiness, concluding her post with the message: “God bless you, Elon, the world is lucky to have you.”
Questions About the Musk-Zilis Separation
How many children do Elon Musk and Shivon Zilis share?
Elon Musk and Shivon Zilis share four children. They welcomed twins in 2021, followed by a third child in February 2024 and a fourth boy subsequently.
Does Shivon Zilis still work at Neuralink after the breakup?
Yes, Zilis maintains her leadership position at Neuralink. The professional relationship at the brain-computer interface company remains unaffected by the personal separation.
How did the public learn about the split?
Zilis announced the separation in an October 2026 post on X. The disclosure came after an automated tracking bot noted that Musk had stopped following her account on the platform.