At the 2025 Wall Street Journal Innovator Awards, Billie Eilish, the teenage sensation who debuted with the hit "Ocean Eyes" at just 14, stepped onto the stage to receive the Music Innovator Award at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. As she accepted the accolade, Eilish used the platform to deliver a poignant message on the importance of philanthropy.
"We find ourselves in a time where the world is in a deep dark place, and people need empathy and help more than ever," she said, her words carrying an urgent weight. Turning her gaze towards the room, she added, "And there are a few of you here who have more money than I do. If you're a billionaire, what's your story? No hard feelings, but seriously, consider giving your wealth away. It's called 'shorties' in my world." Her words were met with a mix of laughter and applause, but they also generated headlines and sparked a renewed interest in her financial standing.
While no one seemed offended by her words, eyewitnesses reported that Mark Zuckerberg, who was also in attendance, did not clap in response. This unexpected moment ignited widespread curiosity about Eilish's net worth.
The Oscar-winning artist's estimated fortune stands at around $54 million. Her primary sources of income stem from her music and tours, but she has also ventured into her own vegan and cruelty-free perfume brand.
As Stephen Colbert introduced Eilish to the stage, he mentioned that she would be donating proceeds from her Hit Me Hard and Soft tour to "support organizations, projects, and voices dedicated to food equity, climate justice, reducing carbon pollution, and combating the climate crisis." He revealed the generous sum to be $11.5 million, expressing his gratitude "on behalf of humans everywhere."
