Background of the Testimony
A former OpenAI board member has shared details about her personal and professional connection with Elon Musk. She explained that her relationship with Musk later led to her becoming the mother of four of his children.
Court Appearance in California
Shivon Zilis gave testimony for several hours in a federal court in Oakland, California. The case is linked to Musk’s legal effort to challenge OpenAI’s shift from a nonprofit structure toward a for profit model.
During her statement, she focused mainly on her early involvement in discussions around OpenAI’s direction. She also described how her professional path eventually crossed with Musk in a more personal way.
How the Personal Connection Began
Zilis said that in 2020 she wanted to become a mother. At that time, Musk offered to help through sperm donation.
She explained that Musk encouraged people around him to have children and noticed she did not have any. According to her testimony, he offered to donate sperm, and she accepted the offer.
Professional Background and Link to Musk
Shivon Zilis has worked in Silicon Valley for more than 15 years as a venture capitalist. She has also held leadership roles at Tesla and Neuralink, both companies associated with Elon Musk.
She joined OpenAI in 2016 as an advisor shortly after its launch. She said this role is how she first met Musk, which later expanded into both professional collaboration and personal connection.
Public Context
Zilis also appeared at a private event with Musk earlier in the year, showing that their connection continued beyond early professional interactions.
