Jimmy Donaldson, widely known as MrBeast, and Amazon are facing legal challenges as contestants from their reality competition show "Beast Games" have filed a class-action lawsuit. The legal action, initiated by five anonymous participants, alleges workplace abuses, insufficient wages, and mistreatment during the show's production.
The lawsuit, filed on September 16, 2024, at the Los Angeles Superior Court, targets MrBeast, Amazon, and associated production companies. Contestants claim they experienced "gross mistreatment and neglect" on set, along with inadequate compensation and unpaid overtime.
"Beast Games," an Amazon Prime production filmed in Las Vegas, involved over 1,000 contestants competing for a $5 million prize, touted as the largest in television and streaming history. The show's format aligns with MrBeast's signature style of organizing extreme challenges for substantial rewards.
The legal complaint outlines serious allegations, including:
- Contestants suffering physical injuries and hospitalizations
- Deprivation of basic needs such as food, sleep, and medical care
- Instances of sexual harassment during production
- Insufficient wages and unpaid overtime
- Failure to reimburse business-related travel expenses
The lawsuit also claims that female contestants were particularly affected, citing a "culture of misogyny and sexism" that production staff allegedly failed to address.
MrBeast, at 26 years old, has become a prominent figure in the digital content landscape. His main YouTube channel boasts over 316 million subscribers, making it the most-subscribed on the platform. Forbes estimates his earnings at $82 million between June 2022 and June 2023, solidifying his position as YouTube's highest earner.
"The female contestants particularly and collectively suffered as a result of Defendants' actions. The Beast Games work environment systematically fostered a culture of misogyny and sexism where Production Staff did nothing."
MrBeast's rise to fame began in 2012 when he started his YouTube channel at just 13 years old. Known for pioneering expensive stunts and challenges, he has expanded his brand into various ventures, including a virtual restaurant chain called MrBeast Burger and a snack company named Feastables.
While the lawsuit raises serious concerns, it's worth noting that MrBeast has also been involved in numerous philanthropic efforts. He has planted over 20 million trees through his #TeamTrees initiative and has given away millions of dollars to individuals and charities. His content often involves a mix of extreme challenges and charitable acts, such as attempting to get an entire shelter of dogs adopted or building houses for those in need.
As of the time of reporting, neither MrBeast nor Amazon have responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit. The case highlights the potential risks and ethical considerations in producing high-stakes reality competitions, especially when involving a large number of participants and extreme challenges.