YouTuber MrBeast is facing a $5 million lawsuit related to his upcoming series, Beast Games, with allegations that contestants were “shamelessly exploited.” The lawsuit, filed in a Los Angeles court on September 16, names MrB2024 and Amazon among the production companies involved.
The series, announced in March, promised 1,000 participants a chance to win a cash prize of $5 million and aimed to be the largest live game show in the world. However, participants claim they were not compensated, faced unsafe conditions, and experienced sexual harassment.
The legal documents indicate that MrB2024 is believed to be partially owned by MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson.
The contestants allege they were subjected to surveillance, restricted in their sleep and clothing, and denied privacy and outside access. They reported being underfed, with meals provided infrequently, endangering their health.
Additionally, the lawsuit outlines claims of an unsafe environment, including dangerous sets and insufficient background checks, allowing convicted criminals to participate.
Some contestants reportedly suffered physical injuries without adequate medical care.
The allegations further describe a “culture of misogyny and sexism” on set, leading to a hostile environment for women.
The contestants’ lawyers argue that they should be compensated for their contributions to the production, classifying their involvement as essential labor.
All claimants are seeking financial compensation for unpaid wages, with two female claimants also seeking additional damages related to the hostile workplace conditions.
Earlier this year, MrBeast announced that he had hired private investigators to investigate allegations involving co-host Ava Kris Tyson, who was accused by other YouTubers of grooming a minor by sending inappropriate messages when she was 20. Tyson denied the grooming allegations.
In response, MrBeast removed her from his channel, stating that he did not “condone or support any of the inappropriate actions.”
Amazon has declined to comment on the lawsuit, and representatives for MrBeast have not yet responded to inquiries from Newsbeat. The lawsuit also names a production company, Off One’s Base LLP, which has not been reachable for comment.
