Popular YouTuber and streamer Darren “iShowSpeed” Watkins Jr. has donated $50,000 to the Palestine Relief Fund after winning a challenge hosted by fellow creator MrBeast.
The donation, made on June 11, 2024, came from half of the $100,000 prize he earned by defeating YouTuber KSI in a Wipeout-style obstacle course livestreamed on June 5.
IShowSpeed, 19, is known for his energetic and outspoken style online. He has regularly voiced support for Palestine during his livestreams, often using the phrase “Free Palestine.” His donation is aimed at providing humanitarian aid to people in Gaza, where more than 37,000 Palestinians have been killed and 84,000 injured since October 2023, according to the Gaza health ministry.
The move sparked mixed reactions on social media. Many praised his generosity, while others criticized him for not donating the full prize money. Supporters defended him, pointing out that few critics had donated themselves. Some online posts also claimed he made an offensive remark against Israel, though this has not been independently confirmed.
The Wipeout challenge, which drew over 3.7 million views on IShowSpeed’s YouTube channel, showed him competing against KSI, with MrBeast presenting the cash prize in suitcases. His donation was later confirmed by fan account @IShowReports on X.
With more than 25 million YouTube subscribers, IShowSpeed has become one of the most influential streamers. His pro-Palestine stance, including public gestures such as unfollowing a pro-Israel supporter during a livestream, has drawn attention from other creators. Twitch streamer HasanAbi previously praised him at The Streamer Awards 2024 for using his platform to raise awareness.
