MrBeast breaks silence on sexual harassment allegations made by contestants taking part in his Amazon gameshow
MrBeast has responded to a lawsuit filed by contestants of Beast Games alleging mistreatment and sexual harassment.
In September 2024, a lawsuit was brought forward by contestants of the reality competition show Beast Games in the Los Angeles Superior Court.
YouTuber MrBeast - whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson - and Amazon which aired in December 2024.
The $100 million production Amazon Prime Video show had over 1,000 competitors battling through a series of challenges for a $5 million cash prize.
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However, five contestants allege they endured harsh conditions whilst filming for the show and are seeking class-action status on behalf of all contestants involved.
The lawsuit claims that the contestants were 'underfed and overtired' during filming and their 'health and welfare' was 'endangered.' Furthermore, there were reports of a 'hostile environment' on set, including a 'culture of misogyny and sexism' and sexual harassment which was 'allowed because of marching orders from the top'.
Attorneys for the contestants told Variety that while participants 'knew' they'd be 'facing a potentially long and challenging competition,' they ended up 'getting a lot more than they bargained for.'
The attorneys continued: "Several contestants ended up hospitalised, while others reported suffering physical and mental complications while being subjected to chronic mistreatment, degradation and, for the female contestants, hostile working conditions.”
The lawsuit argues that since contestants were essentially treated as employees but were not paid, they should be compensated for their participation.
And those who allege a hostile environment are seeking further compensation.
Now, MrBeast has addressed the allegations in an interview with ABC News' Good Morning America.
"I got to let the lawyers handle it, I can't comment on it," the most subscribed creator on YouTube said.
He then went on to reveal: "But what I can say - I've personally talked to 700-800 contestants, they all want to come back, they all had a great time.
"And you can watch their content online and I think it speaks for itself."
A spokesperson for the 26-year-old also pointed out: "The lawsuit, which was filed last September and hasn't achieved class-action status, still hasn't been served."
Despite the controversy, Beast Games became one of Prime Video’s most-watched shows following its December 2024 release. Some contestants have spoken out positively about their experiences, explaining that they were there for 'the experience and the friendships.'
Elsewhere, MrBeast is reportedly leading an investor group bidding over $20 million to acquire content-sharing platform TikTok, following its ban in the US.
"I don't have the millions of dollars to do it, but we're working with people who do," the philanthropist said.