YouTube sensation MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) has hit back at critics after his latest viral video, “Would You Risk Dying for Ksh64.5M (£372,000),” drew sharp reactions online. The video, which premiered on Saturday and has already surpassed 45 million views, featured a professional stuntman escaping a burning building while collecting bags of cash.
The spectacle included seven dramatic “death traps” – from fire blasts and cannon shots to explosive escapes – prompting many online to label the stunt dangerously irresponsible and even “dystopian.” Some expressed concern that impressionable fans might try to replicate the acts.
MrBeast Responds to Criticism
Donaldson defended the project, stressing that safety was the top priority throughout production.
“We had ventilation for the smoke, a kill switch to cut off the fires, and professionals tested everything extensively. The guy in the video is a professional stuntman. I take safety more seriously than you could ever imagine,” he clarified on X (formerly Twitter).
A pinned comment on the original YouTube upload also outlined safety precautions, including a pyrotechnics team managing the flames and multiple fire suppression systems in place – none of which were ultimately needed.
Mixed Reactions Online
While critics blasted the video as reckless and “humiliating,” others pointed out it was unlikely Eric, the stuntman, was ever in genuine danger. Some even described it as a clever PR stunt rather than a real risk.
Eric successfully completed the challenges, walking away with Ksh45.15M (£260,000) in winnings.
Beyond YouTube
MrBeast, who boasts over 440 million subscribers, is not only YouTube’s biggest creator but also one of its highest earners, expanding his empire through fast food ventures and the Amazon Prime series Beast Games.
Despite the backlash, the video continues to rack up millions of views, cementing MrBeast’s reputation for producing high-stakes, high-drama spectacles – and sparking debate about the balance between entertainment, safety, and ethics.
