Ayoko Ahite
Last Updated on October 3, 2026 by Ayoko Ahite
Tech executive Shivon Zilis, director of operations and special projects at Neuralink and mother of four children with Elon Musk, shared an emotional statement on Friday, October 2, 2026, saying her 5-year romantic relationship with Musk ended abruptly. Her revelation came after a post reported that Musk had unfollowed her.
Zilis described feeling blindsided by the sudden change in their relationship: “It’s hard to go from in love to let go in a week with no warning, but that’s just how it is sometimes,” she wrote.
Alongside her statement, Zilis shared a screenshot that appears to show affectionate text messages exchanged on September 24, in which she expressed her love after they had breakfast together and Musk replied, “Love you too.”
Despite her hurt, much of Zilis’ statement focused on the emotional support she believed she had provided Musk. She said she was happy to have offered him understanding, stability, and gentleness, and hoped their relationship would leave a positive, lasting impression on his life.
Zilis described herself and their children as his “safe space,” explaining that their home offered affection and calm amid the pressures of his public life. She said she had enjoyed comforting him during difficult moments and would deeply miss his presence.
The Neuralink executive also reflected on what she had gained from their relationship, saying Musk had taught her a great deal and brought meaning to her life. Although she acknowledged a profound sense of loss, she emphasized her gratitude for their four children.
Zilis and Musk share twins Strider and Azure, born in 2021; daughter Arcadia, born in 2024; and son Seldon, whose arrival was announced in 2025. Their children remained central to her message as she said she hoped she and Musk could maintain a close friendship and work together as parents.
Zilis did not disclose what prompted the breakup. She closed her statement by saying she still cared about Musk and wished him happiness.
