Elon Musk's Daughter: A Defiant Drag Debut

Selfie of Vivian Jenna Wilson, 2025. Courtesy of Vivian Jenna Wilson under CC BY 4.0.

Vivian Jenna Wilson, the estranged transgender daughter of billionaire Elon Musk, made her drag debut at a high-profile environmental drag show and so-called anti-ICE fundraiser event in downtown Los Angeles. The 21-year-old activist's performance was set against the backdrop of escalating federal immigration raids and her father's controversial rhetoric on gender and politics.

A Performance With a Message

The event, titled "SAVE HER! A Drag Show," was held at The Bellwether in Los Angeles on June 13, 2025. Hosted by environmental drag artist and activist Pattie Gonia, the fundraiser aimed to raise money for immigration legal defense funds, supporting those affected by recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids.

Sources confirm that Vivian, performing under the stage name "Vivllainous," wore a striking black catsuit and a metal-structured corset with black high-heeled boots, all styled with long blonde hair and a futuristic makeup look that matched the show's vibrant energy. Her performance included impressive dance moves and a memorable moment when she reportedly waved a Transgender Pride flag, signaling solidarity with the LGBTQ community and those fighting for civil rights.

Vivian described the experience as "life-changing," expressing gratitude for the opportunity to combine art with activism, as reported by LGBTQ Nation.

Immigration, Politics, and Public Attention

Los Angeles has become a hotbed of protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with activists rallying against what they see as unconstitutional raids and detentions targeting vulnerable communities. The federal agency's increased enforcement has sparked national debate, with critics accusing the Trump administration of using heavy-handed tactics to suppress dissent and undermine civil liberties. The fundraiser where Vivian performed was part of this broader movement, channeling energy into legal support for those caught in the crosshairs.

Vivian's familial ties added another layer of scrutiny. Elon Musk, her father, has spoken critically about transgender issues, expressing disapproval of Vivian's gender identity and activism. According to the New York Post, Musk described his daughter's transition as a result of being "tricked" by what he calls the "woke mind virus," sparking backlash from some and further complicating public perceptions of their relationship.

Vivian, in turn, has branded Musk a "pathetic man-child" and distanced herself from his politics, carving out her own identity as a trans model and fierce advocate for LGBTQ rights, as reported by the New York Post.

Art, Identity, and Activism

Performance art, particularly drag, has long served as a venue for marginalized voices and a platform to challenge societal norms and celebrate identity. Vivian's debut in the show is viewed by supporters as a continuation of that tradition and a vivid example of how performance art can intersect with political activism.

The event's host, Pattie Gonia, emphasized the importance of local action in the face of overwhelming challenges, telling Out magazine, "There are so many problems, and when the problem seems so big, what we do is get local and we get to work," as reported by LGBTQ Nation.

Personal Transformation and Public Role

Once known mostly as the child of one of the world's richest men, Vivian has begun carving her own path as a trans model and a visible figure in the fight for LGBTQ and immigrant rights. Her decision to use her platform in this way is both celebrated by allies and critiqued by detractors, reflecting the deeply polarized nature of modern political discourse.

After recently marking five years since coming out as transgender, Vivian's public break from Musk's shadow and her embrace of drag performance signals a new chapter, one where she uses her platform to challenge not only her family's elite origins but also the political forces she opposes.

Reactions and Reflections

Vivian's drag debut at an anti-ICE fundraiser serves as a flashpoint in ongoing national conversations about immigration, gender identity, and activism. Whether viewed as a powerful act of resistance or as polarizing political theatre, her performance underscores the intersection of art and advocacy in contemporary America.

For those watching, her performance is perhaps a reminder that activism often takes many forms, from protests in the streets to performances on stage to exercising our constitutional rights, regardless of our beliefs. But, we are all Americans.

References: Elon Musk's trans daughter performs at LA anti-ICE fundraiser | Elon Musk's trans daughter slays in drag debut during immigration defense fundraiser | Vivian Wilson makes drag debut for immigration legal defense fund | Vivian Wilson On Loving RuPaul's Drag Race, Her Top Queens, and Her Devil Wears Prada Lip-sync Vision