Critics, however, have called out Musk’s hypocrisy, accusing him of stifling free speech in the very same breath he claims to protect it. The hashtag #WokeWarfare immediately began trending, with users debating the role of corporate influence on social issues and Musk’s aggressive actions toward those he disagrees with.

DreamWorks Animation’s ban from X has left the studio’s marketing team scrambling. Much of their promotional material for upcoming releases relied on the platform to reach younger audiences, many of whom use X to engage with trailers, artwork, and contests. The permanent suspension means that DreamWorks will have to find other ways to connect with its fanbase. Other social media platforms, like Instagram and TikTok, are reportedly gearing up for a surge in engagement as DreamWorks shifts focus away from Musk’s domain.

Meanwhile, fans of DreamWorks have expressed outrage at Musk’s decision, some pledging to delete their X accounts in solidarity with the animation giant. “I’ll miss Shrek memes on my timeline, but I’ll miss X even more if this is the direction it’s headed in,” one user wrote.

And yet, Musk’s decision hasn’t been without its supporters. Some of the more vocal critics of “woke culture” have praised Musk for taking a stand. “Finally, someone with guts is standing up to these big corporations,” wrote a user with a Pepe the Frog avatar. “Musk knows what we need, and it’s NOT more rainbow flags in kids’ movies.”

In many ways, the DreamWorks Animation ban highlights the sheer power Musk wields, not just in the tech and business worlds, but in shaping the cultural landscape. With just a few keystrokes, Musk can determine who gets to participate in the conversation, which businesses get to reach their audience, and what social values are amplified or muted on X.