In 2022, Elon Musk took over Twitter and changed its name to “X.” His ambitious plans for the platform quickly stirred debate, changing how people saw what was once the main place for real-time conversation. Musk promised a more open approach to free speech by relaxing moderation and allowing more unfiltered content. Some people welcomed these changes, but others worried about hate speech, misinformation, and the overall atmosphere on the platform.
One of the earliest and most vocal exits came from powerhouse producer and writer Shonda Rhimes, known for creating television hits like Grey’s Anatomy. In her departure, she made it clear she had no plans to stick around for “whatever Elon has planned,” capturing the unease felt by many in the entertainment world. Following closely behind were actress Téa Leoni and singer Sara Bareilles, both of whom expressed that Twitter no longer felt like a safe or meaningful space.
For Gigi Hadid, the decision was blunt. The supermodel labeled Twitter a “cesspool of hate and bigotry,” highlighting the dangers of unchecked content in an era where online environments can deeply impact mental health and public discourse. Similarly, wrestling legend Mick Foley voiced doubt about the platform’s direction, while Grammy-winning singer Toni Braxton admitted she was unsettled by the content being allowed under the new rules.
Other stars added their own creative touches to their goodbyes. Actor Ken Olin signed off gracefully, musician Trent Reznor condemned the space as “toxic,” and comedian Jim Carrey left with a final cartoon, his unique mix of humor and seriousness intact.
The ripple effect continued, with notable figures such as Don Lemon, Jamie Lee Curtis, Whoopi Goldberg, and Jack White also choosing to walk away. Though each departure carried its own reasoning, the timing strongly suggested a common thread: discomfort with Twitter’s new identity under Musk.
Ultimately, this wave of celebrity exits paints a bigger picture than just a list of famous names leaving a platform. It underscores a growing debate about what kind of digital communities people want to belong to. For some stars, stepping away was about protecting their reputations, aligning with their values, or simply preserving peace of mind.
What remains clear is that Twitter or “X” is in the middle of redefining itself. Whether it emerges as a champion of free speech or a breeding ground for division will determine not just its future, but also whether more public figures decide to stay or say goodbye.