Elon Musk Seeks Mark Zuckerberg Support $97B OpenAI Bid

Elon Musk attempted to enlist Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's help in financing his unsolicited $97 billion bid to acquire OpenAI in early 2025, according to court filings and legal battles between Musk and OpenAI. OpenAI, which Musk co-founded but left in 2018, has alleged that Musk's takeover attempt was a "sham bid" that harmed its business and has sought court orders to subpoena Meta for documents and communications related to Musk's bid and OpenAI's restructuring plans. Meta has objected to these subpoenas, stating neither it nor Zuckerberg signed the letter of intent for the acquisition, and denies any coordination with Musk or participation in the bid. The legal dispute centers on OpenAI's controversial shift from a non-profit to a for-profit entity, a move Musk opposed, leading to multiple lawsuits and public attacks between the two parties. The revelations about Musk and Zuckerberg's communications highlight the high stakes in the AI industry and the perceived threat OpenAI poses to tech giants like Meta and xAI. The case remains ongoing with potential for a lengthy subpoena battle or an out-of-court settlement.