YouTube sensation MrBeast, real name Jimmy Donaldson, has severed all ties with Ava Kris Tyson in response to serious grooming allegations. The move comes after mounting pressure from social media and other content creators over the claims.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Donaldson expressed his strong disapproval of the allegations and outlined his immediate actions. “Over the last few days, I’ve become aware of the serious allegations of Ava Tyson’s behavior online and I am disgusted and opposed to such unacceptable acts,” he wrote.
Donaldson detailed his decision to cut all connections with Tyson: “I’ve seen enough online and taken immediate action to remove Ava from the company, my channel, and any association with MrBeast. I do not condone or support any of the inappropriate actions.” He added that he has engaged an independent third party to conduct a thorough investigation, promising to act based on the findings.
The allegations against Tyson surfaced last month, with accusations that she had messaged a 13-year-old minor when she was 20. Analysis of their public messages on X, Discord, and YouTube revealed references to explicit content, prompting intense scrutiny.
Tyson, who is a transgender woman, has denied the grooming accusations and issued an apology on X. “I humbly apologize to anyone I have hurt with my unacceptable social media posts, and past actions, and to those who may feel betrayed by how I used to act online,” she wrote.
Defending Tyson, the minor involved, known as LavaGS, described the past interactions as “edgy jokes” rather than grooming. Despite this, the allegations have led to significant backlash and public distancing by Donaldson.
Tyson has faced ongoing harassment from some YouTubers since her transition, and Donaldson has previously defended her against transphobic attacks. The recent allegations and subsequent actions have marked a turbulent period for both Tyson and MrBeast’s brand.
