"World where I help people" Beast Games' MrBeast reveals his motivations to do charity

The popular YouTuber MrBeast, who is well-known for his tough challenge videos and huge prizes, recently shared why he wants to assist people. The 26-year-old content creator, who was born James Stephen Donaldson, dismissed hopes for a spectacular beginning in an open interview with Theo Von.

"I should come up with this heart-throbbing story of, like, I just want to help people because I couldn't when I was young. But the honest truth is I know how to make content go viral, we are really good at making good content, and I just believe a world where I help people is just more fun than a world where I don't," he explained.

This disclosure coincides with the breaking of records for MrBeast's new reality series, Beast Games, on Amazon Prime Video. With 50 million unique viewers, the show—which cost more than $100 million to produce—has grown to become Amazon's largest unscripted series.

One thousand competitors compete for the $5 million reward, the biggest sum ever given out on television. As the exhibition draws to a close, it provides fresh perspectives on MrBeast's changing philanthropic and entertainment philosophies.

MrBeast’s growing social consciousness

MrBeast's journey from viral video creator to philanthropist shows a growing awareness of his platform's potential. With over 357 million YouTube subscribers, his traditional content typically features extreme challenges for cash prizes. His recent videos include putting two strangers in an underground bunker for 100 days with a $500,000 prize.

However, his charitable work has taken on new dimensions. His Beast Philanthropy YouTube channel, with over 27 million subscribers, focuses exclusively on giving back. A recent project provided prosthetic legs to 2,000 people worldwide who couldn't afford them, though his playful style remained evident when he told one recipient,

"You came in with one leg, and now you're leaving with two and a briefcase full of money."

MrBeast's social media posts reveal an increasing awareness of wealth inequality. After his prosthetics giveaway, he expressed frustration on X:

"it feels so disgusting that in a country with this much wealth, a YouTuber is their only option to get a prosthetic leg."

His attempts to engage wealthy individuals in philanthropy have led to revealing insights. After seeking donations for a global feeding initiative, he noted the stark contrast in responses:

"It is funny that when I say I'm buying TT I get unfathomable amount of messages from the ultra wealthy but when I fund raise it's crickets."

Entertainment meets reality with Beast Games

A recent episode of the show brought attention to the actual human effects of financial desperation. One competitor, J.C., stole $650,000 for himself when players were asked to divide $1 million, leaving little for the other contenders. The scene that followed, in which J.C. was by himself with his duffel bags of cash and was overtaken with emotion, was a potent critique of economic disparity.

The show has faced scrutiny, including reports of difficult conditions during auditions. During filming, MrBeast revealed his uncertainties about his impact, asking fellow YouTuber Samir Chaudry, "Do you think I'm evil?" Samir's response was measured:

"No, I don't think you're evil. I think you're different."

MrBeast's evolution suggests a creator grappling with his influence and responsibility. He has demonstrated a growing commitment to systemic change with his current focus on ethical sourcing for his Feastables chocolate business, which includes initiatives to remove children from labor in West Africa.

As his platform continues to grow, MrBeast seems to be moving beyond simple viral stunts toward content that combines entertainment with meaningful impact. Whether through his YouTube channels or mainstream streaming shows, his approach to philanthropy continues to evolve, suggesting that doing good and creating engaging content need not be mutually exclusive.

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Beast Games is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.