KSI Faces Backlash from Fans After Calling DanTDM a ‘Hypocrite’ in the Lunchly Controversy
In a recent social media storm, popular YouTuber KSI has found himself at the center of controversy. He responded to fellow content creator DanTDM’s criticism of his new business venture, Lunchly.
The prepackaged meal product, launched in partnership with Logan Paul and MrBeast, has been accused of marketing unhealthy products to children. This sparked a broader debate about influencer responsibility.
DanTDM’s Criticism of Lunchly
DanTDM, known for his family-friendly content, took to social media to voice his concerns about Lunchly. He questioned the ethics behind marketing what he called “crap” to children.
In his initial tweet, DanTDM didn’t mince words. He stated, “This is selling stuff for the sake of making money, simple. How does this benefit their fans? This is selling crap to kids who don’t know better than to trust the people who are selling it to them. Do better.”
What happened to YouTubers man..
— ᴅᴀɴᴛᴅᴍ💎 (@dantdm) September 16, 2024
I can't not say anything anymore. This is selling stuff for the sake of making money, simple. How does this benefit their fans?
This is selling crap to kids who don't know better than to trust the people who are selling it to them.
Do better. https://t.co/Uzz27bcxTA
Dan’s criticism had two main points. He focused on the unhealthy nature of the product and the ethical implications of influencers like KSI, Logan Paul, and MrBeast using their platforms to promote such products to young audiences.
DanTDM’s fans quickly rallied behind him. They praised his call for accountability and appreciated his effort to protect his younger viewers.
KSI Fires Back at DanTDM’s ‘Hypocrisy’ Over Snack Endorsements
KSI, never one to shy away from confrontation, fired back at DanTDM on X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube. He accused Dan of hypocrisy by pointing out that Dan had previously promoted a subscription snack box called MunchPak.
This product, like Lunchly, also targeted children. In one tweet, KSI shared a video of DanTDM promoting MunchPak to his Minecraft audience. He commented, “He was sponsored, then promoted and made a whole video on MunchPak… Now what?”
“B-B-B-But he was talking about food jj”
— ksi (@KSI) September 18, 2024
He was sponsored, then promoted and made a whole video on MunchPak (a monthly sub box full of food and candy) to his Minecraft audience full of kids.
Now what? https://t.co/FcQCl830aN pic.twitter.com/Fhxpg9v0r8
KSI also took issue with DanTDM’s branded toys, specifically his Tube Heroes figures. He sarcastically asked how these products benefited Dan’s audience.
KSI argued that Dan was guilty of the same behavior he was now criticizing. He branded Dan a “hypocrite” for not acknowledging his own past endorsements of products aimed at kids.
In a now-viral video titled “EVERYBODY HATES US RIGHT NOW!”, KSI doubled down on his criticism. He defended Lunchly and mocked the backlash.
He suggested that the negativity was not about the product itself, but rather about a general dislike of him, Logan Paul, and MrBeast.
“People just hate us. People hate Logan Paul, they hate MrBeast, and they hate me on Twitter,” KSI stated. He dismissed the controversy as being driven by personal animosity rather than genuine concern for children’s health.
Fan Backlash Over KSI’s Defensive Response
KSI’s response was met with significant backlash, both from DanTDM’s supporters and his own fanbase. Many felt that KSI had missed the point of DanTDM’s criticism.
Instead of addressing the ethical concerns, they believed he was deflecting blame. Reddit and Twitter soon flooded with memes mocking KSI’s defensive stance. Fans also questioned his maturity and business ethics.
One Reddit user summed up the general sentiment: “If DanTDM calls you out, it should be clear that it’s game over. You’re scummy. That man doesn’t even involve himself in stuff like this, but now that he has kids, he’s using his voice to protect them and his audience. God bless him.”
Comment
byu/Boosharati from discussion
inksi
Others echoed similar thoughts, criticizing KSI for labeling DanTDM a hypocrite instead of engaging with the real issue.
“Man works with the two most controversial figures on YouTube right now and responds with ‘they just hate us for no reason,’” one commenter on YouTube noted. They were referring to KSI’s partnerships with Logan Paul and MrBeast.
The Broader Debate on Influencer Ethics
The Lunchly controversy has sparked a larger conversation about the role of influencers in promoting products. This issue is especially significant when the products are aimed at younger audiences.
DanTDM’s call for creators to “do better” resonated with many fans. They felt that creators with large followings have a responsibility to ensure they aren’t prioritizing financial gain over the well-being of their viewers.
This isn’t the first time the ethics of influencer marketing have come under scrutiny. As YouTube becomes increasingly commercialized, more creators are launching businesses or endorsing products. However, as the Lunchly debate shows, fans are becoming more vocal about holding influencers accountable for what they promote.
Some fans even compared this situation to the backlash MrBeast has faced over his philanthropic projects. They questioned whether his business ventures align with the persona he presents online.
KSI, however, remains adamant that Lunchly is a better alternative to similar products like Lunchables.
In his defense of the product, KSI emphasized that Lunchly offers healthier options, such as real cheese and better-quality meats. “We’ve made something better… I’m excited to see your reviews in our product,” KSI stated.
KSI’s Realization and Shift in Approach
As the backlash grew, KSI began to realize that his response had done little to ease the criticism. Despite his efforts to deflect blame onto DanTDM, the controversy continued to snowball.
Many fans were disappointed by KSI’s refusal to take the concerns seriously. Reddit comments accused him of “cherry-picking” minor criticisms and avoiding the main ethical question about promoting unhealthy products to children.
Eventually, KSI seemed to have a change of heart. He released a more measured response. In it, he acknowledged that while he still stood by Lunchly as a product, he understood the need for influencers to be more responsible with their endorsements, especially when their audience includes children.
“I get it now,” KSI admitted. “As creators, we do have a responsibility to be mindful of what we promote. I should have approached this differently.”
What’s Next for KSI and Lunchly?
While KSI’s reputation may have taken a temporary hit, Lunchly continues to sell. However, the controversy has left a lasting mark on his brand.
Many fans still support him, but the Lunchly drama has highlighted the fine line influencers must walk between promoting their businesses and maintaining the trust of their audiences.
DanTDM, on the other hand, has largely remained silent since KSI’s video. He has chosen not to escalate the situation further.
However, his original message has left a lasting mark on the conversation surrounding influencer marketing. It has also fueled debates about the ethics of selling products to children.
As for KSI, this controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the responsibility that comes with influence. Even well-intentioned business ventures can spark heated debates when the trust of fans is at stake.
The Lunchly controversy is far from over. However, it has undoubtedly sparked an important discussion about the responsibilities that come with being a creator in today’s digital age.
As fans become more critical of the products their favorite influencers promote, creators like KSI will need to be more mindful of the impact their business decisions have on their young, impressionable audiences.
