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Musk Texted Brockman and Altman Would Be 'Most Hated Men in America' Before OpenAI Trial

other · 2026-05-04

In a recent courtroom development, Elon Musk reached out to OpenAI's co-founder and president, Greg Brockman, just days before their trial commenced, suggesting a potential settlement. Brockman proposed that both parties withdraw their lawsuits, to which Musk ominously replied that Brockman and CEO Sam Altman could face significant public backlash. OpenAI has since disclosed this interaction in court, though the judge deemed the texts inadmissible. Musk's legal action aims to revise OpenAI's profit framework, guarantee public access to its technological advancements, and contest its agreement with Microsoft. The trial proceedings are ongoing.

Key facts

  • Musk texted Greg Brockman two days before trial suggesting settlement.
  • Brockman proposed both sides drop suits; Musk threatened they'd be 'most hated men in America'.
  • OpenAI's lawyers filed the exchange on Sunday seeking admission as evidence.
  • Judge ruled the exchange inadmissible.
  • TechCrunch reporter Tim Fernholz is covering the trial on site.
  • Musk's lawsuit seeks to unwind OpenAI's for-profit structure and strip Microsoft's licensing agreement.
  • Observers interpret the text as indicating Musk's motive is financial, not AI safety.
  • Trial continues.

Entities

Artists

  • Elon Musk
  • Greg Brockman
  • Sam Altman
  • Tim Fernholz

Institutions

  • OpenAI
  • Microsoft
  • TechCrunch

Sources