Tech billionaire Elon Musk is facing intense backlash across social media platforms following a remark about Instagram that numerous users have condemned as misogyny. The controversy began when Musk responded to a viral online discussion about social media behavior and posted a comment suggesting that Instagram is a platform “for girls.”
The controversy erupted after Musk chimed in on a viral online thread discussing social media behavior and posting habits across different phases of life. The original discussion focused on people's posting habits on social media, joking about trends such as posting selfies, lifestyle updates, or food content.
ALSO READ: India, Other Oil Importers To Bilaterally Negotiate Transit Corridors With Iran: Moody's
Musk joined the conversation with a short remark that quickly went viral and triggered backlash.
Following his comment, several users accused him of reinforcing gender stereotypes and promoting anti-feminist views, arguing that his statement reduced Instagram's user base and content style to a gender-based label.
Reply to the ongoing thread, Musk wrote, "Obviously. Sometimes grown men send me their Instagram profiles and I'm like, are you transitioning or what?"
Lmao
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 15, 2026
Instagram is for girls
Here are some reactions:
One user wrote, “Delete your account, you raging one.” Another wrote, “Sounds dumb.” Another said, “What does that make you if you're on it as well?”
While others stated, “How are you the richest man in the world when you say stuff like this????? (sic)” The incident adds to a series of controversies involving Musk's online remarks, which frequently spark public debate due to his high-profile status and influence in the tech industry.
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.
