MrBeast, the popular YouTube creator whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, is facing accusations of creating “unsafe” working conditions, including claims of sexual harassment, and misrepresenting the chances of contestants winning the $5 million grand prize on his new Amazon reality show. These allegations are part of a lawsuit filed Tuesday by five unnamed participants.
The lawsuit alleges that the company behind MrBeast’s multimillion-dollar brand failed to provide minimum wage, overtime pay, proper meal breaks, and rest time for the contestants, who claim their involvement in the show constituted the primary entertainment product.
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A spokesperson for MrBeast declined to comment on the lawsuit in a statement provided to the media.
Donaldson’s “Beast Games” was marketed as the “biggest reality competition” and was expected to extend his reach beyond YouTube, where he has amassed a record 316 million subscribers. Known for his elaborate challenges and generous prizes, the North Carolina-based content creator’s show quickly attracted attention. However, trouble arose during the initial filming in Las Vegas this past July.
According to the lawsuit, 2,000 people were initially cast, with half of them set to advance to the show’s final filming in Toronto. Contestants later discovered that the Las Vegas competition pool had grown to over 1,000 participants, significantly lowering their chances of success. The lawsuit claims that this was a violation of California business laws regarding sweepstakes, which prohibit misleading odds in promotional contests.
In addition to complaints about the competition structure, the five anonymous participants also allege they were subjected to poor conditions, including inadequate food and medical care. The lawsuit further claims a toxic work environment was created, particularly for women who faced ongoing sexual harassment. These sections of the complaint were heavily redacted due to confidentiality agreements signed by the competitors.
The lawsuit echoes complaints previously raised by influencers who were involved in the production, claiming the set was chaotic and left some contestants injured and without consistent access to food or medication. Other participants reported receiving only two small meals per day, along with MrBeast-branded chocolate bars.
Additionally, MrBeast’s team is accused of intentionally misclassifying the contestants’ employment status to secure over $2 million in state tax credits from the Nevada Film Commission.
The five plaintiffs are seeking multiple forms of relief, including a court order for workplace reforms and payment of all wages they claim are owed.
In response to recent public relations challenges, Donaldson initiated a review of the internal culture within his company and announced plans to implement sensitivity training for his staff. However, details of the reality show’s release date have not yet been disclosed.
