It’s a heavy day, and I’m sad to write this. Not sure where to start.
In 2022, a lawyer recruited two people who took care of my Mom—an assistant and one of her dozen nurses—to resign and demand a million dollars each, or they would publish horrible things about her in a lawsuit. I refused. The lawsuits were filed. Luckily, the accusations are so sick, twisted, and outrageous that they refute themselves. There’s some weird sex stuff, and also claims that my Mom is racist. I am sad for whatever mind could even imagine such things.
I won’t link or quote them because they don’t deserve that, but the lawsuits have been part of the public record and available to anyone with a web browser since 2022. The lawyer sent them to every major media publication and gossip rag. You’re just hearing about them now because any journalist who spent five minutes calling around easily saw how spurious the claims are and didn’t run with the story. They’ve been dredged up as part of the smear campaign against me in my battle with Silver Lake and WP Engine.
My advice for any other founder: As you gain wealth this may happen to you with household staff as well. Never settle. It just creates an incentive for more people to make stuff up. Even if it’s messy, fight the claims in court as I am doing. It’s the only way to deter people trying to make a quick buck. These cases are common, and the media is used to them.
Now for some good news! I’m happy to report that since these two people left, my Mom has had no errors in her medication (previously, she had to be hospitalized twice and almost died because of medication errors). She’s back to the weight she was in her 30s and isn’t in a wheelchair all the time anymore. She’s just moved into a new home we’ve been remodeling together for the past 5 years. She still has 24/7 RNs, but the new nurses have been fantastic and feel like an extension of our family. We’re looking forward to celebrating the holidays together with my sister, lifelong family friends like the Ornelas family, Mom’s four dogs, and some of my fifteen godchildren who live in the area.
I may be wrong or dumb about many other things, but I sincerely believe in the sanctity and beauty of every human life, regardless of any background. We are all God’s creation. My Mother taught me these values, and I have done my best to uphold them in my life’s work building open source, WordPress, and Automattic. It’s part of why I give so much back.
Hey Matt. Coming from someone who has been in a similar position and recently lost my mum to her many ailments, you have my sympathies.
And while I do not fully agree with your position and approach to the recent WP Engine situation, there is no place for these unrelated personal attacks.
I am deeply sorry that this personal information is being used to hurt you, Matt, especially when it involves a third party like your mother. I send you a big hug and my deepest respect.
Matt, it’s heartbreaking to read about the challenges you’ve faced, especially when they involve such personal and painful experiences. I admire your strength in standing up for what’s right and sharing your story so transparently. It’s a reminder that success often comes with unexpected battles, and your advice to other founders is invaluable. On a brighter note, I’m so glad to hear that your mom is doing better and that you’ll be able to enjoy the holidays with loved ones
I’m sorry that people are attacking your family in all this mess. Stay strong and good luck to you all.
I’m glad you responded. The lady who posted the lawsuit on Twitter – her handle is @tealou – is a horrible human being.
I’m a former open-source founder and all these people leeching off your work need to toe the line. If they can’t then they should build their own WordPress(obviously that’s beyond their competence).
Only you know the troubles you endured before WordPress gained traction. It’s after you succeeded that these sickos decided to claim your hardwork as their own.
Really not trying to be a jerk, but they are built off other peoples unpaid work.
I’m genuinely sorry to hear about the ordeal you and your mom have faced. It’s admirable that you’ve chosen to fight these baseless claims and not give in. Your advice is invaluable to other founders who might encounter similar challenges. On a brighter note, it’s heartwarming to hear about your mom’s improved health and the supportive environment you’ve created for her. Wishing you both continued strength and happiness!
It’s deeply unfortunate and unfair that such baseless and hurtful allegations have been leveraged against your mother for financial gain. Its good news that she now okay.
I’m really sorry to see how much hurt and negativity are affecting you. It’s disheartening, especially when it feels like people are constantly bombarding you with false statements and hate. Envy and anger can make the world feel twisted, but I believe empathy, even though it’s rare, has the power to heal.
It’s tough to deal with everything when it’s coming at you nonstop. Just remember that protecting your mental health is so important. Stay strong and know that you’re not alone in this. Surround yourself with kindness whenever you can, it makes a real difference.
Lastly, I’m so glad to hear your mom is doing better. She’s been there for you all these years, and now you’re doing an amazing job protecting and supporting her, just like she did for you. Keep that love and strength going, it’s a special bond.
There’s a fine line to becoming a hate mob. Bringing up accusations like this is going too far. Sorry you had to deal with that. Speculating on your mental health/etc. is also in bad taste. And I’m saying this as someone who has been a vocal critic.
Unbelievable to hear about those lawsuits regarding your mum.
Sounds like typical American opportunist behavior.
Glad to hear you sorted this out!
I’m really sorry to hear you and your family have had to go through something so difficult. It’s awful how people can twist things for personal gain. I’m glad to hear your Mom is doing so well now with the new care team, and I hope the upcoming holidays bring peace and joy for you all. Take care!
Without regard to people who feel obligated to do anything they can to make someone else seem small, I think it’s very cool, and a super special blessing that you’re in a place where you’re able to do something like that for your mom. I’m sure she realizes how fortunate she is to have a son like you. Stay strong, Matt. There are plenty of us in your corner.
hang in there man.
Sorry to hear this. You’re doing the right thing – never cave in to “blackmail” because it never stops. Glad to hear your Mom is doing better. The very best to all.
Good advice. Bryan Johnson took a stand against an unjust lawsuit against him and shared similar advice to never settle. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5rokANviwo
I really hate they brought your mom into some thing should be off limits. I’m sure she is a sweet lady.
Sending you (and your wonderful mom) love and care, dear Matt.
Saw people on r/wordpress trying to slander you with these allegations…guilty until proven innocent I suppose. It’s sad to see how r/wordpress has gone down the the drain with juvenile comments like “u/photomatt is a dodohead” getting like 100 upvotes, meanwhile even the moderators are getting downvoted en masse for trying to stay impartial.
Anyway, I’m sure it will all work out for you. Wish you and your mom all the best.
I would like to take a moment to make a public statement in support of Kathleen Mullenweg and the Mullenweg family, particularly in light of the baseless allegations being spread about them. My name is Rene Ornelas, and I have had the privilege of knowing this incredible family for 27 years. As a first-generation Mexican American, whose family hails from Monterrey, Mexico, I have experienced firsthand the unconditional love and kindness they have shown me.
From the very beginning, the Mullenweg’s welcomed me as if I were a member of their own family. I consider Matt Mullenweg my brother and Kathleen my second mother—‘Momma,’ as I affectionately call her. Kathleen has been a constant source of love and support, always sending prayers and checking in on me, especially given the dangers of my job as a Houston firefighter. She cares for my children as if they were her own grandchildren, offering me invaluable motherly advice that has helped me through many challenges in life.
Matt, a man of the highest integrity, has been shaped by his parents’ example. He is one of the most loving, loyal, and selfless friends I’ve ever known. It’s beyond frustrating to see people attempting to tarnish the reputation of such a remarkable family with false accusations. These claims are not only untrue but completely absurd.
The Mullenwegs are the epitome of what it means to be a loving, caring, and inclusive family. They have always demonstrated generosity and acceptance, embracing everyone without bias. It’s deeply upsetting to see them attacked in this way, and that’s why I felt compelled to speak out.
This family’s integrity and kindness are beyond reproach, and I will always stand by them. They are, in every way, a shining example of love, compassion, and selflessness.
Matt, I’m so sorry to hear about your mom, but I’m glad she’s doing better. I care for everyone, but I know that sometimes people aren’t themselves when money is involved. I’ll also say that anyone who targets a mother and uses that for any reason has to be a certain kind of person.
Matt, I’m really happy to hear that your mom has been doing better. I’ve been thinking about her, especially as my mom had some health complications last year (she’s recovering well now though). Here’s to many more opportunities to celebrate with them.
I’m sorry, that is terrible. Certain lines should never be crossed. Blessing to you and your mother.
Happy early Holidays to you and your awesome family, Matt “The Motivator.” Blessings and continued good health to your mom. Peace…and…WP-4-Life!✌
It took courage to write this. Well done.
Hang in there. This too thall pass.
Oh wow! That is awful to see! I am glad your mother is doing better, & I pray she lives to over 100 in order to celebrate more holidays with you!
Also, I am glad most reporters did not run with the story. You might be many things Matt (& I do have some strong disagreements with you), but I have never once thought you or anyone in your family as being bigots.
Also, if WP Engine goes feral tries to slander your mother, then the geek community will go after them as family should not be dragged into these legal disputes.
Take care, & be blessed!
Was really happy to hear that your mom is doing better Matt! What a feeling that must have been finally getting her moved into her own home.
We’re all behind you sir.
Matt, I am glad your mother is doing better. Thank you for being a thoughtful leader and innovator. Your contributions and ideas have had profound positive influence in the world and on my life both personally and professionally. I’ve very much enjoyed the podcast interviews with Tim Ferriss, though I have to say, I still use swear words and have not been able to successfully fast. Wink. Wink. I know you are very thoughtful in how you walk through this world and it is refreshing and wonderful. Big hugs and lots of love to you today and always! And to your mom!