Justin Bieber Shocks Fans with Retirement and Plans to Leave the U.S.—Feud with Elon Musk Adds Fuel
In a move no one saw coming, pop superstar Justin Bieber has officially announced his retirement from music at the age of 30—and he’s also leaving the United States.
The announcement, made via social media on March 9, 2025, comes on the heels of a very public feud with Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, adding a surprising twist to Bieber’s exit from the spotlight.
A Legendary Rise
Bieber’s career is the stuff of pop culture legend. From uploading covers on YouTube as a Canadian teen to becoming a global icon, his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Discovered by Scooter Braun at just 13, Bieber skyrocketed to fame with the release of his debut single “One Time” and platinum-selling album My World.
Over the years, he delivered chart-toppers like “Baby,” “Sorry,” and “Love Yourself,” reinventing his sound while remaining a fixture on the Billboard charts. Through public highs and personal struggles, Bieber’s influence on pop music and culture remained undeniable.
“It’s Time for a New Chapter”
In his retirement message, Bieber thanked fans for their unwavering support and hinted at a desire for personal growth and change:
“I’ve been blessed beyond measure with your love and support. After much contemplation, I’ve decided to step away from the spotlight and embark on a new chapter. Thank you for allowing me to live my dream.”
The Elon Musk Feud
Adding intrigue to his departure was a very public clash with Elon Musk. Their disagreement reportedly stemmed from differing views on artificial intelligence.
Bieber, who’s spoken out about AI’s risks in the past, called for ethical boundaries in its development during a podcast interview. Musk quickly fired back online, dismissing Bieber’s views as “uninformed.”
What followed was a flurry of headlines and online reactions, turning the debate into a trending topic. While some saw it as a genuine discussion about tech ethics, others wrote it off as a celebrity spat. Still, the timing of Bieber’s retirement only added fuel to the fire.
Moving Out of the U.S.
Along with stepping away from music, Bieber also revealed plans to leave the U.S., citing a need for privacy and a fresh start. Though he hasn’t revealed where he’s headed, sources close to him say he’s considering a return to his native Canada or a move to Europe.
“I’ve cherished my time in the U.S., but I feel it’s time for a new perspective,” Bieber said. “I’m looking forward to experiencing different cultures and finding inspiration in new places.”
Reaction from Fans and the Industry
Fans—affectionately known as “Beliebers”—were quick to flood social media with messages of love and support, sharing memories of how his music shaped their lives. While many expressed sadness, most respected his decision and wished him well.
Celebrities also weighed in. Longtime friend and mentor Usher said:
“Justin has accomplished so much at a young age. I respect his decision and look forward to seeing what he does next.”
Scooter Braun, the man who discovered him, added:
“It’s been an incredible journey. While I’m saddened to see him step away, I fully support his choice and can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
His Lasting Legacy
Bieber leaves behind a legacy that goes far beyond chart numbers. He changed the way artists build global careers through social media and was one of the first to truly harness the power of online fandom. His evolution from teen idol to a respected voice in pop demonstrated both growth and grit.
Off-stage, his philanthropy and candidness about mental health have made a lasting impact as well.
What’s Next?
While Bieber’s stepping back from performing, few believe he’s leaving the creative world behind entirely. Some speculate he may explore acting, while others suggest a shift into tech or fashion ventures. There’s also buzz around potential roles behind the scenes in songwriting or producing.
The End of an Era
Justin Bieber retiring at 30 marks the close of a defining chapter in pop music. Whether or not he returns to the stage someday, his influence will continue to resonate across the industry and with fans around the world.