On March 19, 2025, TV host Star Jones stirred up a lot of drama with a heated rant against billionaire Elon Musk, calling him “stupid” during her show, Star Speaks. Her comment quickly spread online, but what happened next shocked everyone: Jones was slapped with a massive $20 million fine because of a contract rule that bans “defamatory statements against high-profile public figures.” Legal experts think Musk might have influenced this harsh reaction since he is known for being quick to take legal action.
This fine, which is like years of Jones’ salary, has put her career at risk. The network has suspended Star Speaks indefinitely, and advertisers have pulled their support. While some fans are backing Jones’ right to speak freely with the #StandWithStar campaign, others believe Musk’s power is behind the harsh punishment. Jones has promised to fight the fine, calling it “extortion,” and has hinted at possibly suing back.
Musk’s involvement, whether he was directly behind it or not, has overshadowed Jones’ career. Some people think her outburst could end her career, while others see it as a struggle between an underdog and a powerful person. How this legal and public relations situation plays out will decide Jones’ future in the entertainment world.