Elon Musk, the billionaire founder of Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter), is known for his groundbreaking innovations and unconventional lifestyle. While his public persona often revolves around his ambitious projects and bold statements, there’s a private side to Elon that not many people get to see. In a rare interview with The Times, his brother Kimbal Musk offered a closer look at what it’s like growing up with Elon and how the two brothers navigate their relationship amidst their vastly different worldviews.
Growing Up as Elon Musk’s Brother: A Unique Perspective
Kimbal Musk, a successful chef, businessman, and philanthropist, opened up about his childhood with Elon in the Musk family. Being the middle child, Kimbal had a front-row seat to Elon’s early days, witnessing firsthand the traits that would later define his brother as a visionary leader. The Musk brothers shared a typical sibling relationship, filled with moments of camaraderie and conflict.
“We literally used to get into fistfights,” Kimbal recalled, highlighting the intensity of their bond. Despite their disagreements, the two quickly reconciled. “We might be angry as heck in the moment, and then five minutes later we want to watch a movie together,” he shared.
Sibling Rivalry and Business Disagreements
As adults, Kimbal and Elon Musk continue to share a close, albeit sometimes contentious, relationship. Both serve on the board of Tesla, and their business discussions can get heated, especially when they disagree on strategic directions. “We had a debate about manufacturing and how we get the costs down,” Kimbal told The Times, recalling a recent late-night argument. “We just fundamentally disagreed on how to do that. At one in the morning, I had something more to say, so I thought, ‘I’m just going to call him.’”
Kimbal’s wife, Christiana, described their relationship dynamic: “Kimbal challenges Elon and disagrees with him more than anyone, but in a container of, ‘I love you, you’re my brother. But I don’t agree with you…’” Despite their differences, the brothers share a deep bond, often ending their disputes with laughter and light-hearted moments.
A Peek Into Elon Musk’s Personal Life
Despite his busy schedule and the constant demands of running multiple companies, Elon Musk makes time for his family. Kimbal shared that Elon attended all three of his weddings — arriving just in time each time. The couple recalls Elon’s unconventional wedding gift: instead of reading a traditional poem on love, he chose Kahlil Gibran’s “On Pain,” adding his unique touch to the ceremony.
Christiana Musk, who has been married to Kimbal for six years, described Elon and Kimbal’s relationship as one filled with “insane laughter attacks.” She added, “They have different worldviews but at the end of the day they are both just giggling children.” This playful dynamic between the two brothers is a testament to their strong bond, despite their vastly different approaches to life and business.
Elon Musk’s Unique Living Arrangements
While many billionaires opt for luxurious lifestyles, Elon Musk’s living arrangements are notably modest. He resides in a 1,000-square-foot home in South Texas, close to SpaceX’s launch site, Starbase. When Kimbal and Christiana visit, they stay in an Airstream trailer. “We still managed to throw a 50th birthday for him at Starbase, campout-style,” Christiana shared, highlighting the family’s ability to adapt to Elon’s unique lifestyle.
Elon’s minimalist lifestyle reflects his focus on efficiency and sustainability. Unlike many, he doesn’t prioritize lavish meals or comfort. “Elon doesn’t think about food or meals. There’s a lot of chaos,” Christiana noted. “Kimbal loves to nourish him and makes him three meals a day and provides a calming, loving environment.”
Kimbal, who takes it upon himself to ensure Elon is well-fed when he visits, humorously added, “I don’t even know how he eats when I’m not there.”
The Musk Family’s Bond
Despite their busy lives and occasional disagreements, the Musk family maintains a close bond. Whether it’s through late-night phone calls, heated debates about business strategies, or sharing a meal, the Musk brothers exemplify a strong familial connection built on mutual respect and love.
Conclusion
Elon Musk’s lifestyle is as unique as his approach to business and innovation. While he may be a figure of intense focus and ambition, behind the scenes, he shares a deep, personal connection with his family, particularly his brother Kimbal. Their relationship, filled with both conflict and camaraderie, offers a rare glimpse into the human side of one of the world’s most fascinating figures. Whether it’s a heated debate or a heartfelt laugh, the bond between Elon and Kimbal Musk remains unshakeable.
