The highly anticipated Netflix documentary, The Sidemen Story, was released on February 14, offering fans an intimate look into the lives and journeys of the popular YouTube group, The Sidemen. Comprised of Ethan Payne (Behzinga), Harry Lewis (W2S), Joshua Bradley (Zerkaa), Olajide 'JJ' Olatunji (KSI), Simon Minter (Miniminter), Tobit 'Tobi' Brown (TBJZL), and Vikram 'Vik' Barn (Vikkstar123), the Sidemen have been creating YouTube content for over a decade, amassing more than 100 million views in the process.
The group's success on YouTube has allowed them to expand their brand and venture into various other avenues. The Sidemen have five YouTube channels, including Sidemen, MoreSidemen, SidemenReacts, SidemenShorts, and Sidemen en Español. Additionally, they have dabbled in merchandise, launched their own vodka brand called XIX vodka, released a book, and even opened their own restaurant chain.
Here are five intriguing things we learned from The Sidemen Story:
1. The Sidemen's Connections: Josh and Tobi attended the same school, while KSI and Simon were schoolmates. Josh had known KSI through YouTube, and the group shared anecdotes about their early days on the platform. It was fascinating to discover the relationships and connections that brought the Sidemen together.
2. Harry's Journey: Harry was hailed as a 'superstar' even before joining the Sidemen. The group acknowledged his talent and described how he seamlessly integrated into their dynamic. Harry's journey and trajectory within the Sidemen was highlighted, showcasing his impact and contribution to the group.
3. The Content-Creating Factory: In the early days, Josh, Simon, Vik, and KSI shared a house that was essentially a content-creating hub. They worked tirelessly, following a routine of eating, filming, waking up, and editing. This assembly line of content played a significant role in shaping their success.
4. Turbulent Times: The documentary shed light on the challenges faced by the Sidemen, including KSI's departure from the group in 2017. The friction between KSI and Ethan became apparent, leading to a decline in collaborations. However, this period also saw the release of diss tracks between the Sidemen and KSI, generating substantial revenue for the group.
5. Personal Struggles: The Sidemen Story delved into the personal battles and obstacles faced by individual members. Josh opened up about his 'crippling anxiety' and how gaming became an escape for him. Ethan shared his struggles with mental health, reflecting on his past struggles with substance abuse and suicidal thoughts. The group proved to be a support system for one another during times of need.
Throughout the documentary, the Sidemen discussed their motivations to keep going. Legacy was a recurring theme, with KSI emphasizing the importance of YouTube as the core of their success. The group acknowledged that without YouTube, their endeavors in boxing and music wouldn't have been possible. They recognized the need to continue posting content on the platform to ensure their continued growth.
The Sidemen Story offers an intimate and revealing glimpse into the lives of a group of YouTubers who have successfully navigated the online landscape for over a decade. It showcases their trials, triumphs, and the bonds forged along the way. This documentary is a must-watch for fans and anyone curious about the world of YouTube content creators.
