MrBeast Under Fire for Controversial Stunt in $500,000 Challenge

Thu Oct 16 2025 22:24:25 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The popular YouTuber, known for his extreme challenges and philanthropy, faces backlash over a video that depicts a stuntman escaping a burning building for a cash prize. MrBeast defends the safety measures in place.

In his latest video, MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, features a professional stuntman trying to collect money in a burning building, leading to significant criticism for endangering viewers. Despite the backlash, he insists that safety was a priority, showcasing professional oversight and planning throughout the challenge.

MrBeast, the world's biggest YouTuber, has defended his latest stunt video - Would You Risk Dying for $500,000 (£372,000) - which shows a professional stuntman escape a blazing building while collecting bags of cash.

The fiery spectacle sparked fury, as some online suggested it was dangerously irresponsible and could put viewers who might copy the clip at risk.

In response to the criticism, MrBeast - real name Jimmy Donaldson - said I take safety more serious than you could ever imagine.

Donaldson has more than 440 million subscribers on YouTube and is believed to be its highest-paid creator. His business ventures also include fast food and an Amazon TV gameshow, Beast Games.

The video, first posted to YouTube on Saturday, currently has more than 45 million views. In it, Eric, the contestant, takes on seven death traps including getting shot out of a cannon into some fire, surviving massive explosions, as well as escaping from what appears to be a mock-up of a small house.

Reacting to the backlash, MrBeast said: This blew up, if you're curious obviously we had ventilation for the smoke and a kill switch to cut off the fires. He emphasized that professionals tested the stunt extensively and that the contestant was a trained stuntman.

Despite some arguing it was a mere publicity stunt, many criticized the video as a dystopian and humiliating spectacle. However, Eric, the contestant, successfully completed the challenge and collected over $350,000 (£260,000).

MrBeast's popularity hasn’t come without controversy. Earlier this year, he dealt with accusations related to exploitative practices during his Amazon gameshow and faced backlash in Mexico over his portrayal of Mayan pyramids in a video.