YouTuber tycoon MrBeast wants to contribute money to buy TikTok?

Top YouTube star Jimmy Donaldson (aka MrBeast) is considering joining the race to buy TikTok's US operations. This information comes after the short video sharing app encountered many legal troubles and was banned from downloading in the US.

MrBeast plans to acquire TikTok?

It all started with a 'joke' tweet from Donaldson on social network X (formerly Twitter) on January 13, where he expressed his intention to buy TikTok to avoid the app being banned. However, Donaldson later said that he had received contacts from many billionaires and was seriously considering the possibility.

A group of investors led by Jesse Tinsley, CEO of Recruiter.com, is preparing to make an all-cash offer to buy TikTok US, according to a statement from law firm Paul Hastings. Notably, MrBeast is also among the investors.

However, MrBeast spokesman Matthew Hiltzik said the YouTube star has not officially entered into any deal. "Jimmy is in discussions with multiple potential buyers," Hiltzik told The Associated Press.

The value of the deal has not been disclosed. President Donald Trump previously valued TikTok at $1 trillion if it were allowed to operate in the US with 50% US ownership. Donaldson's net worth, meanwhile, is estimated at $1 billion.

Whether MrBeast has the clout to become part owner of TikTok US remains to be seen. However, the move shows the growing influence of content creators on digital platforms.

Lesley Montoya

Update 10 February 2025