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    KSI, whose real name is Olajide Olatunji, is stepping out on his own. After almost 13 years, the British content creator, entrepreneur, boxer, and musician has left the Sidemen, one of the world’s most successful YouTube collectives.

    Founded in 2013, the Sidemen initially consisted of seven members. Together, Simon Minter, Vikram Barn, Ethan Payne, Harry Lewis, Tobit Brown, Joshua Bradley, and KSI have built an empire. Starting from sharing gaming videos online, the Sidemen have successfully diversified into venture capital, football leagues, consumer goods, reality TV, and merchandise. Today, they are down to six. 

    A Surprise Announcement 

    In a 13-minute video uploaded to his personal channel, KSI announced that he was no longer going to be a part of the Sidemen. 

    “I’ve gone back and forth on this decision for a very long time. I’ve spent months trying to figure out what the right thing to do is, but after a lot of thought, I’ve decided that I will no longer be doing Sidemen videos,” he announced. 

    KSI went on to explain that he was being pulled in too many different directions. He felt as if he no longer had time for his family, his loved ones, or even himself. 

    “The Sidemen deserve someone who can give 100%, and right now, I know I can’t do that. It just wouldn’t be fair on the boys; it wouldn’t be fair to you, and it wouldn’t be fair to myself,” he added. 

    In an Instagram post from the official Sidemen page, the remaining members admitted that KSI’s exit “came as a surprise.” 

    Related post: 10 Black Creators Who Made The 2026 Mashable 101 List

    The Sidemen Aren’t Done Yet

    Over the last 13 years, the Sidemen built their channels to over 47 million subscribers, with a further 60 million subscribers across the members’ individual channels. The group championed an equal pay structure, with every member splitting earnings equally regardless of their individual game. This structure was cited by KSI himself as the main factor behind their long-term success. The group would also rotate planning and execution responsibilities. One member would take full ownership for individual Sidemen Sunday videos, which over the years have turned into full productions, easily being over one hour long. 

    What began as seven friends playing video games online has grown into one of the most diversified creator-led businesses in the world. Over 13 years, the Sidemen expanded well beyond YouTube into venture capital, clothing, alcohol, fast food, reality TV, and more. This includes two seasons of their Inside show on Netflix. 

    Their annual Charity Match has become a cultural institution of its own. Since launching in 2016, the series has raised over £14.7 million for charity. The most recent edition drew 90,000 fans to Wembley Stadium and a peak of 2.2 million concurrent viewers online. 

    Despite losing one of the founding members, the Sidemen remain committed to continuing their channel. 

    “This is the end of an era, but not the end of the Sidemen. The rest of us will continue to bring you Sidemen content with the same commitment and optimism we’ve always had,” they shared on Instagram. 

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    What Comes Next for KSI

    In 2023, Forbes ranked KSI as the second most profitable content creator, behind Mr Beast. That year he pulled in just under $24 million in revenue. Across his personal channels, he commands an audience of over 43 million subscribers, making him the most popular Sideman. 

    There is fan speculation that KSI departed the Sidemen to focus on building his personal brand and competing with the likes of Mr Beast. Beyond YouTube, his priorities now include his role as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent, his football leadership roles, and a growing portfolio of entrepreneurial ventures. 

    He stressed that “nothing bad has happened” between himself and the group, and that the decision was entirely his own

    For a collective that once seemed unbreakable, KSI’s departure shocked the internet. While this marks the end of his involvement with the Sidemen, it may be the beginning of an even bigger chapter for KSI. 

    Related post: 10 Black Streamers Powering the Creator Economy — and Building Real Wealth

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    The post KSI Leaves YouTube Collective Sidemen After 13 Years, Ending an Era appeared first on UrbanGeekz.

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