MrBeast’s Beast Games: Filming Issues Blamed on CrowdStrike

Extreme weather conditions and a significant cyber incident unexpectedly interrupted the production of Beast Games, which started on July 18 in Las Vegas. MrBeast’s spokesperson explained to The New York Times that the production was “unfortunately complicated by the CrowdStrike incident [on July 19], extreme weather, and other unexpected logistical and communications issues.” The CrowdStrike incident, which affected systems globally, including airlines, banks, and hospitals, played a significant role in the logistical chaos. However, the exact details of its impact on Beast Games remain unclear.

The Times’ investigation revealed troubling accounts from over a dozen of the 2,000 competitors who participated in the qualifying round in Las Vegas. Many contestants reported inadequate access to food, water, medical supplies, sanitary products, and sleep. One meal reportedly consisted of “a tiny portion of cold oatmeal, one hard-boiled egg, and a few pieces of raw vegetables.” In addition, contestants claimed that staff distributed Feastables bars while filming their reactions.

Upon arrival, contestants were required to surrender personal items, including medications and underwear, which should be returned during the shoot. However, many reported significant delays in receiving these essentials. The lack of adequate rest was another major concern, as much of the filming took place at night without providing a quiet place to rest during the day. Contestants described the staff as overwhelmed and ill-equipped to manage the large group, with some staffers reportedly laughing at menstruating contestants being denied necessary sanitary products. One contestant who needed food to take their prescribed medication was initially refused, eventually receiving only half a banana after repeated pleas.

The Times reviewed the Beast Games contract, which warned participants of potential risks, including “death, illness, or serious bodily injury, including, but not limited to, exhaustion, dehydration, overexertion, burns, and heat stroke.” Several hospitalizations occurred during filming, with some contestants leaving the arena on stretchers and others experiencing vomiting and fainting.

Despite these issues, production is set to continue, with the next round of filming scheduled in Canada. A thousand contestants who made it through the Las Vegas qualifying round are expected to participate. MrBeast’s spokesperson stated, “We are grateful that virtually all of those invited to Toronto for our next production have enthusiastically accepted our invitation.”

The spokesperson also noted that they have communicated directly with 97 percent of the participants to seek feedback and have launched a formal review of the process. The team aims to learn from this experience and improve future productions. However, some participants felt misled, believing that only 1,000 people would compete for the show’s $5 million prize, only to discover that the preliminary event was to narrow down the 2,000 contestants.

MrBeast’s production team acknowledged the need for improvement, citing the CrowdStrike incident, extreme weather, and unexpected logistical challenges as significant factors. They expressed gratitude that nearly all the finalists were willing to continue and participate in the next stage of the competition. Despite the controversies, the team’s commitment to addressing the issues and moving forward with the production indicates a willingness to learn and adapt from these experiences.

The next phase of Beast Games in Toronto will proceed with more apparent protocols and improved planning as MrBeast’s team seeks to create a safer and more organized environment for the contestants. While the recent challenges have overshadowed the production, the team remains hopeful and dedicated to delivering a groundbreaking reality competition.