YouTube sensation PewDiePie, whose real name is Felix Kjellberg, has once again stirred the online community with his recent decision regarding a substantial donation. The Swedish-born YouTuber, known for his gaming commentary and internet culture insights, had initially pledged to donate $50,000 to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), an anti-hate organization.
However, just a day after making the announcement, PewDiePie had a change of heart. He declared that his initial decision was a “mistake” and that the donation didn’t “feel genuine” to him. This abrupt reversal led to a flurry of discussions and speculations among his fanbase.
PewDiePie’s History of Controversy
PewDiePie’s history has not been without controversy. He has faced criticism for past instances of making anti-Semitic jokes and using racist language in his content. In one notorious incident in 2017, he paid individuals in Sri Lanka to display a sign that read “Death to All Jews.” Consequently, Disney’s Maker Studios and YouTube severed their business ties with him, and the ADL CEO at the time, Jonathan Greenblatt, commended this move, stating that PewDiePie’s behavior had “crossed a line.”
The decision to donate to ADL appeared to be an attempt to make amends for his past actions and dispel allegations of having far-right affiliations. PewDiePie felt a sense of responsibility following the Christchurch mosque shootings earlier that year when the attacker had urged people to “subscribe to PewDiePie” during a live-stream of the massacre. However, PewDiePie’s wavering commitment to the donation has puzzled many.
In a video posted on his channel, PewDiePie explained that he had chosen ADL as the recipient based on advice, rather than personal passion. He admitted that this choice was a mistake and that he didn’t feel genuine about it. Unfortunately, he didn’t elaborate on the specific reasons that led to his change of heart.
The ADL, in response, stated that they learned about PewDiePie’s potential donation only when he announced it publicly on his channel. They clarified that they had not received any further communication from him regarding the matter.
PewDiePie’s journey on YouTube has been nothing short of remarkable. He recently achieved the milestone of surpassing 100 million subscribers on his channel, earning the coveted YouTube Red Diamond Creator Award. This achievement was a result of a closely watched subscriber race against Indian entertainment giant T-Series.
