Pop superstar Billie Eilish used her acceptance speech at the WSJ Magazine 2025 Innovator Awards on October 29, 2025, to deliver a pointed message toward the ultra-wealthy.
The 23-year-old Grammy and Oscar winner urged billionaires to use their wealth to “help people who need it,” while Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg — one of the richest men in the world — was in the audience.
Eilish was honored for her impact on music during the New York City event held at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
Her remarks quickly spread online, drawing both applause and debate over her boldness in addressing inequality directly in front of high-profile billionaires.
What Happened at the Ceremony
During her speech, Billie Eilish said,
“We’re in a time right now where the world is really, really bad and really dark and people need empathy and help more than ever. If you have money, it would be great to use it for good things, maybe give it to some people that need it.”
She continued with a lighthearted but pointed remark:
“Love you all, but there’s a few people in here that have a lot more money than me. If you’re a billionaire, why are you a billionaire? No hate, but yeah, give your money away, shorties.”
The comment drew laughter and applause from the audience, though some remained quiet — including Zuckerberg, who, according to People, did not clap after the speech.
Zuckerberg and Chan Remain Reserved
An eyewitness told People that Mark Zuckerberg stayed silent during Eilish’s remarks.
Zuckerberg attended the event with his wife, Dr. Priscilla Chan, who was also recognized for her philanthropic work through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative.
In her own acceptance speech, Chan said,
“I can’t believe they let science nerds like me into parties like this,”
and spoke about her ongoing efforts to advance medical research and patient care.
Other honorees included Ben Stiller, Spike Lee, Hailey Bieber, Hermès’s Nadège Vanhée, and George Lucas with Mellody Hobson.
Why Eilish’s Speech Matters
Eilish’s message reflects a growing sentiment among younger generations calling for wealth redistribution and corporate accountability.
Given her influence and large Gen Z following, the moment added cultural weight to ongoing discussions about economic inequality and philanthropy.
Her comments — delivered at a room full of innovators and billionaires — underscore a broader social demand for ethical responsibility from the ultra-rich.
What’s Next for Billie Eilish
After receiving the Innovator Award, Billie Eilish is expected to continue promoting her latest environmental and social initiatives, along with new music projects scheduled for early 2026.
The singer, who has long advocated for sustainability and mental health awareness, remains a leading voice among artists challenging the status quo in entertainment and beyond.
Sources
People Magazine
Forbes Billionaires Index
The Wall Street Journal Magazine
Getty Images / WSJ Innovator Awards 2025
