The Ontario Ministry of Labour is investigating an industrial accident that occurred on September 11, 2024, on the Toronto set of Beast Games, a Prime Video competition series produced by YouTube star MrBeast, in collaboration with Blink 49 Studios and Manhattan Beach Studios.
The incident took place on the grounds of the former Downsview Airport, where a miniature village had been constructed as the show’s set. According to the labour ministry, a worker was injured by falling wood. While the extent of the injuries has not been disclosed due to the ongoing investigation, the ministry issued “requirements” to the employers involved. However, no further details about these requirements were provided.
Neither Blink 49 Studios, Manhattan Beach Studios, nor Prime Video have responded to requests for comment. Toronto Police were also called to the scene but have stated the incident was not criminal in nature and does not warrant their investigation.
Additional Allegations
A recent Rolling Stone investigation included claims that a six-foot by six-foot piece of the set’s exterior fell on a crew member while the set was being dismantled. However, the labour ministry has not confirmed these details.
Beast Games is the latest venture from Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, whose YouTube channel boasts a staggering 340 million subscribers. The 26-year-old creator, famous for extravagant stunts and generous cash giveaways, has partnered with Amazon MGM Studios to launch the show, which premiered earlier this month. The series features 1,000 contestants competing for a grand prize of $5 million, with challenges that often force participants to choose between personal gain or helping teammates.
Controversy Surrounding the Show
This is not the first time the production has faced scrutiny. In September, five contestants from a tryout event held in Las Vegas filed a lawsuit against Donaldson and his production company, alleging unsafe working conditions, including sexual harassment, and misleading statements about their chances of winning.
In response, Donaldson dismissed the allegations as exaggerated, stating on social media platform X that he would release behind-the-scenes footage to clarify the situation after the show’s release.
Beast Games has drawn significant attention for its high stakes and dramatic premise, but the ongoing labour investigation and prior allegations highlight growing concerns about working conditions behind the scenes.