Ads promoting a documentary scrutinizing the actions of billionaire Elon Musk were reported to have been prohibited on TikTok and X platforms. However, after a brief delay, these ads are now live on YouTube and Meta’s social media networks. The trailer for the documentary titled “Musk,” which runs for nearly four hours, was unveiled on Thursday before its theatrical release on October 9th.
According to a report in the Hollywood Reporter on Friday, Bleecker Street, an independent distributor, faced rejection from all four companies when attempting to purchase ad space for the documentary. YouTube, TikTok, and Meta cited “political content” as the reason for the rejection, while X, owned by Musk, did not provide any comments.
Following an online backlash, YouTube announced on Saturday that the ads for “Musk” are now being displayed on their platform. The platform stated that the ad had initially faced temporary restrictions but was eventually approved after review.
Meta informed CBC News on Monday that the rejected ads had been reinstated due to an error, without further elaboration. Despite multiple attempts, Bleecker Street, TikTok, and X did not respond to requests for comments.
TikTok does not allow paid political advertisements, while Meta restricts them in certain regions like the European Union. YouTube permits political ads with transparency disclosures, and X allows them in selected regions, including the U.S.
Elon Musk gained significant political attention when he supported Donald Trump’s re-election campaign in 2024 and later served in his administration as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency. Although he has since left the administration, Musk remains a divisive and vocal figure.
The documentary delves into allegations that the world’s wealthiest man has sought to control online discourse, exploring his acquisition of Twitter, now X, and accusations that Musk may have misused his Starlink satellites to influence the 2024 election improperly.
Director Alex Gibney expressed satisfaction after YouTube and Meta approved the ads, attributing it to public pressure. Musk, on the other hand, has criticized the documentary as a “hit piece” since Gibney announced its production in 2023.
The film has received critical acclaim, with Vulture describing it as a “damning” portrayal of Musk and Variety calling it a “lacerating portrait of technocratic brilliance, power lust, and crackpot delusion.” In a similar vein, a dramatized depiction of Mark Zuckerberg in “The Social Reckoning,” directed by Aaron Sorkin, is set to be released by Sony next month.
Despite Musk’s objections to the documentary, it has been well-received by critics for its insightful examination of the controversial figure’s actions and influence.