MrBeast’s ‘Beast Games’ Offers $5M Prize, Sparks Controversy

Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, has launched his highly anticipated game show, ‘Beast Games,’ on Amazon Prime Video, offering a record-breaking $5 million prize. The competition, which pits 1,000 contestants against each other in a series of physical and mental challenges, has already sparked both excitement and controversy.

The show’s premiere episode, released on January 7, 2025, introduced viewers to the high-stakes format, where contestants face moral dilemmas, physical endurance tests, and unexpected eliminations. One contestant, identified as Player 892, shared his experience on his YouTube channel, ‘Out Of The Box,’ describing the intense atmosphere and the emotional toll of the competition. ‘It was one of the most electric moments. Everyone was freaking out, cheering like crazy,’ he said.

In a surprising twist, MrBeast offered contestants the chance to self-eliminate for a slice of $1 million, with 52 participants choosing to walk away with $19,230 each. Contestant 829 revealed that some competitors were only in it for a quick payout, stating, ‘My mindset was to talk to everyone around me. I’m trying to convince everyone, ‘If you’re here for $10,000, take this money and get out of here.’

The show’s challenges, which include trapdoor eliminations and team-based competitions, have drawn comparisons to Netflix’s ‘Squid Game.’ However, ‘Beast Games’ has faced criticism for its behind-the-scenes conditions. Contestants reportedly signed contracts acknowledging the risk of ‘death, illness, or serious bodily injury,’ and some have alleged mistreatment, including lack of access to food and medical care.

Despite the controversy, ‘Beast Games’ has captivated audiences with its high-stakes drama and record-breaking prize. New episodes are set to release every Thursday until mid-February, with future rounds taking place in locations like ‘Beast City‘ and a private Panamanian island. As the competition heats up, viewers are left wondering who will walk away with the $5 million grand prize—and at what cost.