Tech Mogul’s Decision Sparks Controversy
Elon Musk, the renowned tech mogul, has blocked actor James Woods on X after Woods criticized Musk’s move to eliminate the block function from the platform formerly known as Twitter.
Actor Threatens Retirement
Woods, known for his roles in “Vampires” and his willingness to share his identity on the platform, expressed concern that without the block feature, X would become “untenable” for users like him. He even went as far as stating that he would retire from the site if Musk removed the block option.
Musk Mocks and Blocks Opponents
Musk has been mocking and blocking opponents of his decision to remove the block option. In a recent post, Musk shared that he is enjoying blocking people who complain about the feature being taken away.
Musk’s Defense
Musk has defended his decision by outlining a plan to strengthen the mute function, making anything posted by muted accounts invisible to the muter. He assures users that they will still be able to block people from direct messaging them.
Controversy Surrounding Block Function Removal
Defenders of the block function argue that its removal will lead to an increase in harassment on the platform, particularly affecting marginalized groups such as women and people of color.
Woods’ Past Experience
Woods, while speaking out against Musk, shared his own experience of being targeted by trolls and organized entities during a libel suit. He filed a $10 million complaint against an anonymous Twitter user who had falsely accused him of being a cocaine addict.
Accusations Against Musk
Woods accused Musk of removing the block function to protect advertisers and turn X into an electronic shopping mall. He expressed disappointment in Musk, whom he had previously championed as a defender of free speech.
Musk Blocks Woods
Musk blocked Woods on X, leading the actor to remark that Musk had proven his point by sticking to his prerogative. Despite the incident, Woods received an astonishing wave of support from fans and announced that he will never leave X unless forced to do so.
Times intern Emerson Drewes and former staffer Ann M. Simmons contributed to this report.