In a glittering room filled with some of the world’s wealthiest figures, Billie Eilish didn’t hold back.
The 23-year-old Grammy-winning singer used her spotlight at the WSJ.
Magazine Innovator Awards to call out billionaires for hoarding wealth instead of helping those in need.
The event, hosted at MoMA in Midtown Manhattan on Wednesday, saw tech moguls, Hollywood icons, and fashion leaders all gathered under one roof.
Eilish accepted the Music Innovator Award, but she quickly shifted the attention from herself to a message she clearly cares about: generosity and empathy.
A Direct Message to Billionaires
Addressing the likes of Mark Zuckerberg, George Lucas, and Hailey Bieber, Eilish said:
“Love you all, but there’s a few people in here that have a lot more money than me.
If you’re a billionaire, why are you a billionaire? No hate, but yeah, give your money away, shorties.”
The comment drew laughter and applause from most of the audience—though a source told People that Zuckerberg, currently the third-richest person in the world with a net worth of $257 billion, did not join in the clapping.
Despite the critique, Eilish’s tone remained playful but pointed, making it clear she expects those with immense wealth to step up for social causes.
Putting Words into Action
Eilish isn’t just talking the talk. During the ceremony, Stephen Colbert announced that she has already raised over $11.5 million through her Hit Me Hard And Soft Tour.
The funds will go to her Changemaker Program, which supports organizations tackling food insecurity and climate change around the world.
“Billie Eilish will be donating proceeds from her tour to support organizations, projects, and voices dedicated to food equity, climate justice, reducing carbon pollution, and combating the climate crisis,” Colbert explained.
Her philanthropic efforts clearly match her strong words to the ultra-wealthy.
Style and Star Power on Display
While calling out some billionaires, Eilish shared the stage with Hailey Bieber, whose own success in the beauty industry earned her recognition at the event as Beauty Innovator of 2025.
The pair posed together for photos, showing camaraderie despite the singer’s pointed comments earlier.
Eilish wore a chic navy blue jacket and knee-length skirt layered over a grey sweater and patterned blouse, finishing her look with black sock garters, charcoal socks, and double-buckled brown shoes.
Her signature raven hair was worn down in a middle part, complementing her mauve-toned makeup.
Hailey, meanwhile, stunned in a strapless black leather mini dress paired with pantyhose and white leather pumps, her brunette hair pulled back into a sleek ponytail.
A Star-Studded Gathering
The gala brought together a high-profile mix of celebrities and influential figures.
Alongside Eilish and Bieber were George Lucas with his wife Mellody Hobson, director Spike Lee, actor Ben Stiller, and Zuckerberg’s wife Dr. Priscilla Chan.
At the end of the evening, all awardees joined for a group photo, cementing the event as one of glamour, innovation, and, in Eilish’s case, a bold push for accountability.
Billie Eilish managed to combine fashion, philanthropy, and fearless commentary in one memorable evening, making it clear she’s not just here to perform—but to challenge the powerful and inspire change.