In a sensational twist for Amazon Prime Video’s hit show Beast Games, YouTuber MrBeast—real name Jimmy Donaldson—and Amazon now find themselves at the center of a lawsuit. The reality competition, which debuted in December 2023 and quickly became one of Amazon’s most-viewed shows, reportedly cost $100 million to produce and featured over 1,000 contestants competing for a $5 million cash prize. However, allegations from several contestants paint a starkly different picture behind the scenes.
In September 2024, five contestants filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court seeking class-action status. The allegations range from mistreatment and chronic exhaustion to sexual harassment and a toxic environment of “misogyny and sexism” on set. Lawyers representing the contestants claim that some participants were hospitalized, and many suffered physical and mental health issues due to the show’s grueling conditions.
A spokesperson for MrBeast added that the lawsuit, which was filed months ago, has yet to achieve class-action status or be officially served.
With Beast Games initially hailed as a triumph for Prime Video, the lawsuit casts a shadow over its success. The outcome of the legal battle could have significant repercussions for reality TV production practices and contestant rights. As the controversy unfolds, the industry—and the fans—will be watching closely.
In September 2024, five contestants filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court seeking class-action status. The allegations range from mistreatment and chronic exhaustion to sexual harassment and a toxic environment of “misogyny and sexism” on set. Lawyers representing the contestants claim that some participants were hospitalized, and many suffered physical and mental health issues due to the show’s grueling conditions.
Allegations of Unpaid Labor and Exploitation
The lawsuit further argues that contestants should be classified as employees, given the extensive demands placed on them during filming. It also highlights claims of unpaid wages and the failure to provide a safe working environment, particularly for female contestants. “Several contestants ended up hospitalized,” the legal team told Variety, “while others reported suffering chronic mistreatment and degradation.”MrBeast Breaks Silence
Addressing the allegations during an interview with Good Morning America, MrBeast remained guarded but offered some insight. “I got to let the lawyers handle it; I can’t comment on it,” Donaldson said. “But what I can say is I’ve personally talked to 700 to 800 contestants, and they all want to come back. They all had a great time. You can watch their content online, and I think it speaks for itself.”A spokesperson for MrBeast added that the lawsuit, which was filed months ago, has yet to achieve class-action status or be officially served.
With Beast Games initially hailed as a triumph for Prime Video, the lawsuit casts a shadow over its success. The outcome of the legal battle could have significant repercussions for reality TV production practices and contestant rights. As the controversy unfolds, the industry—and the fans—will be watching closely.
