Five contestants competing on a MrBeast-hosted reality competition show have filed a proposed class-action lawsuit against the YouTube star’s production company and Amazon. The lawsuit, filed in a Los Angeles court, alleges that participants on the Amazon Prime Video show called “Beast Games” were denied pay, forced to participate in unsafe conditions, and subjected to a “culture of misogyny and sexism.”
The 54-page document outlines claims of contestants being subjected to “unreasonable, unsafe, and unlawful employment conditions” that resulted in several hospitalizations. Participants also reported being fed sporadically, lacking access to hygienic products, and medical care.
Sexual harassment allegations were mentioned in the lawsuit, with specific examples redacted from the document. The lawsuit further accuses the show of obtaining an “illegal contract” and providing false information to Nevada to receive tax credits, totaling $2.5 million.
A New York Times report highlighted claims of dangerous conditions on the show, including contestants leaving on stretchers, witnessing vomiting, and multiple hospitalizations. A spokesperson for MrBeast cited logistical and communication issues during the shoot and mentioned a formal review of the show.
“Beast Games” is touted to be the largest game show in history, with a $5,000,000 prize and over 1,000 contestants. MrBeast, known for his philanthropic endeavors and popular YouTube channel with 245 million subscribers, has not responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit. Amazon declined to comment as well.
Prior to this lawsuit, controversy arose in August when a 2017 video surfaced showing MrBeast making inappropriate comments. A spokesperson for MrBeast acknowledged the use of inappropriate language in his humor.
