The Rise of IShowSpeed: A Controversial Gaming YouTuber
We'll delve into the rise of iShowSpeed and explore how he has become a dominant force in the world of YouTube.
Introduction
In the vast ocean of YouTube content creators, there are a few shining stars who manage to capture the hearts and minds of millions around the world. One such luminary is iShowSpeed, a remarkable YouTuber who is known for his "hot-headed" personality and antics, which have managed to attract an audience of over 17 million. His controversial words and actions on his streams have landed him in trouble on more than one occasion, but the controversies associated with him are a key part of his appeal, which continues to grow as the days go on. IShowSpeed's meteoric rise to fame can be attributed to his unique persona and the opinions that he provides during his broadcasts. We'll delve into the rise of iShowSpeed and explore how he has become a dominant force in the world of YouTube.
The Genesis of iShowSpeed
Darren Watkins Jr. (born January 21, 2005), in Cincinnati, Ohio better known by his online alias IShowSpeed (or simply Speed), is an American YouTuber, streamer and internet personality. He is known for his variety livestreams in which he primarily plays video games including Roblox, Fortnite, and FIFA. He started uploading gaming-related videos on YouTube around the middle of 2019, and his uploads were often without commentary or face cams. The games usually tended to be NBA 2K, WWE 2K, or Fortnite. His set-up wasn't anything extraordinary either, with him streaming videos in lower resolution.A game that has majorly contributed to his growth in popularity is Talking Ben.Eventually, his subscriber count saw a rise in the span of a few months, reaching 100 thousand subscribers in April 2021, 1 million in June 2021, and 10 million in July 2022.Despite his controversial words and actions on his streams, IShowSpeed's popularity continues to grow, and he has gained over 17 million subscribers on YouTube.
Captivating Content and Unique Style
iShowSpeed's success can be attributed to his ability to create compelling content that resonates with viewers.
Musical career
In August 2021, iShowSpeed introduced his debut single, "Dooty Booty," on his YouTube channel. Once uploaded, the song quickly gained traction on YouTube and other popular social media platforms.In November 2021, he unveiled another single titled "Shake," which cleverly sampled the iconic track "Ready or Not" by Fugees. The accompanying music video for the song amassed over 160 million views on YouTube. In June 2022, iShowSpeed delighted fans with the release of "Ronaldo (Sewey)," a track inspired by his newfound admiration for soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. Then, in November 2022, he treated his audience to the single "World Cup," a tribute to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, released through Warner Records.
Influencer career
He became prominent in 2021 after his fanbase began posting clips on TikTok of his often-violent behavior during live streams towards games, players, and his camera, which gained popularity and became memes. His outbursts have resulted in bans from the streaming platform Twitch and the video game Valorant.
Popular moments of iShowSpeed
In July 2022, iShowSpeed ignited a Pikachu firework in his bedroom, almost causing a severe fire incident.
August 2022, he was swatted while livestreaming on YouTube, officers handcuffed Watkins and his cameraman was forced to end the stream. Watkins claimed that he had been placed in jail and that Adin Ross had to bail him out.
In the same month, he attempted to cheat on a course at Ohio Digital Learning School, seeking answers from his viewers who instead played a prank by providing incorrect responses, resulting in him scoring 0/10 on the quiz.
In December 2022, iShowSpeed won the "Breakout Streamer" award at the 12th Streamy Awards.
On September 7, IShowSpeed uploaded a clip from his livestream in which he attempted the Kylie Jenner lip challenge.
Controversies
He was indefinitely suspended from the Amazon-owned livestreaming platform Twitch and permanently switched to streaming and developing content on YouTube
Jul 25, 2022 ishowspeed simulating a sex act while playing Minecraft went viral
In December 2021 ishowspeed Threatening to sexually assault Ash Kaash
In November 17 when he streamed while visiting the UK, where he promoted a shady cryptocurrency project called Paradox Metaverse.
In December 2022, Watkins garnered controversy for his behavior toward a Chinese spectator of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, which was interpreted by many as racist.
In November 2022, Sky Sports announced that they would stop featuring him on their platform after the emergence of past misogynist and derogatory comments made by Watkins.
IShowSpeed finally meets Ronaldo
IShowSpeed has been an unwavering fan of Ronaldo for an extended period. Even during his own participation in football events like the Sidemen charity match. After years of longing to cross paths with the football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, he finally had the opportunity when he was in a conversation with some of Ronaldo's family members.
Conclusion
IShowSpeed's rise to fame has been controversial, but it has also been impressive. He has gained a massive following in a short amount of time, and his content continues to attract viewers. However, his controversies have also brought attention to the importance of responsible content creation and the need to be mindful of the impact of one's actions.
