Billie Eilish made headlines at the WSJ. Magazine Innovator Awards after publicly challenging billionaires to share their wealth — right in front of Mark Zuckerberg.
By Narrator News Staff | October 29
The 23-year-old Grammy-winning artist accepted the Music Innovator Award during the star-studded ceremony in New York City on Oct. 29, where some of the most powerful names in business and entertainment were in attendance.
But Eilish didn’t just accept her award — she delivered a message that had the entire room buzzing.
“If You’re a Billionaire, Why Are You a Billionaire?”
During her heartfelt acceptance speech, the “Bad Guy” singer addressed the crowd, urging those with massive fortunes to make a difference.
“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,” she said passionately. “I’d say if you have money, it would be great to use it for good things — maybe give it to people that need it.”
Then came the moment that had everyone’s attention — and all eyes on Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, who was seated in the audience.
Eilish continued,
“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 sparked quiet laughter, applause, and a few awkward smiles across the crowd at the Museum of Modern Art.
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Zuckerberg’s Reaction: Silence Speaks Volumes
According to an eyewitness from PEOPLE, Mark Zuckerberg did not clap following Eilish’s pointed remark — even as others in the room chuckled or applauded.
Zuckerberg, who has a staggering net worth of $257 billion (according to Forbes), attended the event with his wife Priscilla Chan. The pair were honored as 2025 Philanthropy in Science Innovators for their work through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, an organization focused on medical research and disease prevention.
Despite their philanthropic pledge to donate 99% of their Meta shares during their lifetime, Eilish’s comments seemed to underline a lingering tension between extreme wealth and moral responsibility.
Billie’s Actions Match Her Words
Eilish didn’t just talk about generosity — she demonstrated it.
Moments before her speech, Stephen Colbert, who introduced her, announced that the singer was donating $11.5 million from her Hit Me Hard and Soft Tour to causes including climate justice, food equity, and carbon reduction.
“Billie will be donating proceeds from her tour to support organizations, projects and voices dedicated to food equity, climate justice, and combating the climate crisis,” Colbert said. “On behalf of humans everywhere — thank you.”
Her actions drew a standing ovation, proving her message wasn’t just talk — it was a call to action.
A Star With Style and Substance
For the event, the “What Was I Made For?” singer rocked a navy blazer and pleated skirt with tall grey socks, channeling a “private school chic” vibe. Her sleek black hair, dark eyeliner, and effortless attitude completed the look that was both bold and rebellious — much like her message.
Despite the moment of tension, Eilish appeared relaxed, posing at the afterparty alongside Hailey Bieber, whom she’s known for years through Hailey’s husband, Justin Bieber.
Eilish also attended the event with her mom, Maggie Baird, who’s been an advocate for climate action through the family’s nonprofit work.
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