YouTube personality MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, has been blasted for his new video in which a professional stuntman escaped from a fire to claim $500,000. The video, “Would You Risk Dying for $500,000,” went live on Saturday and has already racked up more than 45 million views. In the stunt, Eric was subjected to seven extreme tests, ranging from explosions of fire, cannon balls, to evading smoke and fire in a room.
The action scenes left many online viewers shocked. Some described the video as risky and were worried others would attempt to repeat it. Social media users described it as humiliating and dystopian, worrying that the pursuit of views was reaching ethical boundaries. Others came to the defence of the video, insisting Eric was a professional stuntman and presumably never in actual danger, describing it as more of an act than anything real. Eric ended up taking home $350,000 in prize money and indicated he would use it to help out his retired parents.
MrBeast Responds to Criticism
In reply to the intense backlash, MrBeast vigorously defended how the video was produced. He clarified that precautions were carefully implemented in regard to safety and that each of the challenges was thoroughly tested beforehand. On his social media platform X (formerly Twitter), he posted, “We had ventilation for the smoke, a kill switch to shut off fires, and pro teams monitoring everything. I take safety more seriously than you could ever imagine.”
He also posted a note on the YouTube video describing that a pyro team specifically took care of the fire effects, and a few fire suppression systems were on standby to extinguish the flames immediately if necessary. He emphasised that Eric was a professional stuntman and professionals oversaw every step. MrBeast revealed that the safety systems were not utilised at all during shooting because the stunt was rehearsed and controlled.
Previous Controversies Surrounding MrBeast
This is not the first time MrBeast has faced criticism for his big-budget videos. He has over 440 million subscribers and is YouTube’s highest-paid creator, known for mixing stunts with philanthropy and giveaways. Last year, he hosted Beast Games, an Amazon series where 1,000 contestants competed for $5 million. That show later faced a lawsuit from some participants who said they felt exploited during filming. MrBeast dismissed those claims, calling them exaggerated.
In other controversies, the Mexican government criticised him earlier this year for profiting from the Mayan pyramids for content, and he also had to apologise after fans experienced a negative experience at a Las Vegas event organised in his name. Despite all this, his videos keep getting millions of views, proving his enormous influence as one of the world’s most-watched creators.
News At Glance
- MrBeast video footage of stuntman making getaway from burning building for $500,000.
- The video was criticised as dangerous and irresponsible by viewers.
- MrBeast justified it, claiming extensive safety precautions were taken.
- Contestant Eric took home $350,000 and intends to assist his retired parents.
- MrBeast has been subject to other controversies previously, but is still massively popular.
FAQs
1. What was MrBeast’s latest video about?
It depicted a professional stuntman escaping life-threatening challenges, including a burning building, to earn $500,000.
2. Why are people angry about it?
Most critics claimed that it appeared irresponsible and that they were worried about fans imitating the risky actions.
3. Was the contestant really in danger?
According to MrBeast, no. He had explained that the stuntman was a professional and that there were several layers of safety systems.
4. How much did the contestant really win?
Eric, the stuntman, took home $350,000 in cash.
5. Has MrBeast ever been criticised before?
Yes. He has been criticised for exploiting contestants in previous projects and for other massive stunts, although he regularly comes to the defence of his actions.
Stay updated with the latest news, innovations, and economic insights at Inspirepreneur Magazine.
