Elon Musk’s Complex Love Life: From $20M Divorces to Secret Children

AUSTIN, Texas — Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur behind Tesla and SpaceX, has long been a figure of fascination not only for his technological innovations but also for his tumultuous romantic life. From high-profile marriages and divorces to secret children, Musk’s personal life has often mirrored the drama of his professional endeavors.

One of the most notable chapters in Musk’s romantic history involves actress Talulah Riley, whom he married and divorced twice. Their relationship began in 2008 when the two met in a London bar. Within 10 days, they were engaged, and by 2010, they married in a lavish ceremony at Scotland’s Skibo Castle. However, their union was short-lived, ending in divorce in 2012. Musk announced the split on social media, writing, “It was an amazing four years. I will love you forever. You will make someone very happy one day.”

Despite the breakup, the couple reconciled in 2013 and remarried. Riley later explained their decision, saying, “It was like a habit.” But by 2016, they divorced for a second and final time. Riley received a total of over $20 million in settlements from their two divorces, yet she has remained a vocal supporter of Musk, describing him as the “perfect ex-husband” and a lifelong friend.

Musk’s romantic life didn’t end with Riley. In 2018, he began a relationship with musician Grimes, with whom he shares three children. Their relationship has been marked by multiple breakups and reconciliations, with Grimes referring to Musk as her “best friend and the love of my life.” In 2022, it was revealed that Musk had secretly fathered twins with Shivon Zilis, a top executive at Neuralink, adding another layer of complexity to his personal life.

Musk’s first marriage to Justine Wilson, his university sweetheart, also ended in divorce after the tragic loss of their first son, Nevada, to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The couple later welcomed twins and triplets before parting ways in 2008. Justine reflected on their marriage, describing it as a “dream lifestyle” but one that couldn’t mask the growing void caused by Musk’s obsession with his work.

Despite the ups and downs, Musk has maintained amicable relationships with many of his former partners. Riley, for instance, attended Musk’s 2024 wedding to actor Thomas Brodie-Sangster, a testament to their enduring friendship. “I loved/love the guy,” Riley said in an interview, acknowledging her bias but emphasizing the depth of their connection.

Musk’s personal life continues to captivate public attention, offering a glimpse into the complexities of a man whose ambitions extend far beyond the confines of Earth. As he navigates the challenges of his professional and personal worlds, one thing remains clear: Elon Musk’s life is anything but ordinary.