- MrBeast’s first video posted directly to X reached over 150 million views and brought in $263,000 in revenue in just one week, showing the platform’s potential for creators.
- Despite the high revenue, MrBeast believes it was inflated by advertisers capitalizing on the viral traction rather than organic views.
- Though the revenue was insignificant for top YouTube earner MrBeast, the video’s success signals X can compete in the creator economy pioneered by YouTube.
Jimmy “MrBeast” Donaldson recently posted his first video directly on X, reaching over 150 million views in just one week. The video highlights MrBeast and his team exploring various exotic vehicles. While the video brought in over $263,000 for Donaldson, he admits the high revenue is likely a “facade” boosted by advertisers rather than organic views. Still, the video signals potential for creators on X as the platform aims to compete with YouTube.
MrBeast’s Meteoric Rise on YouTube
Over the last few years, MrBeast (real name Jimmy Donaldson) has become the most popular individual creator on YouTube. With over 370 million subscribers across his channels, the 24-year-old pulled in $54 million in 2022 to become YouTube’s top earner. He is known for expensive, stunt-filled videos as well as charitable endeavors funded by his YouTube success.
Details of the X Video
The video shows MrBeast and friends checking out various decked-out cars including flying cars, amphibious cars, and other exotic vehicles. They even take a ride with Jay Leno in his custom ride. The video brought in over 150 million views and $263,000 in revenue in just one week after it was posted directly to X.
Why MrBeast Calls it a “Facade”
Despite the high revenue and views, MrBeast admitted the money was likely “a bit of a facade.” He believes advertisers took notice of the high traction and bought ads on the video to capitalize on the attention. So the earnings per view are higher than typical organic views on X.
The Potential of X for Creators
The success of MrBeast’s X debut comes as the platform aims to compete with YouTube, TikTok and others in the lucrative creator economy. With its revenue-sharing program that pays creators, X hopes to incentivize top talent like MrBeast to bring original content. The viral traction of MrBeast’s first X video shows the platform’s potential to drive major viewership.
Conclusion
While the $263,000 is insignificant for top earner MrBeast, his first X video proves the platform can drive real views and revenue. As X courts more top creators, MrBeast’s case study shows the platform can compete in the space pioneered by YouTube. X still has challenges ahead, but the early success of influencers
