MrBeast’s latest YouTube video is closing in on 150 million views after just 10 days. Filmed across the best part of a year, the 36-minute video sees MrBeast’s friend Majd challenged to lose 100 pounds within one year – with the promise that he will be given $250,000 if he achieves his goal (and nothing at all if he fails).
For the challenge, Majd is given everything he needs to succeed – a coach, gym equipment, access to healthy food etc. The catch is that he has to live within a dedicated complex for the entire time – and not step outside its boundaries. As with many of MrBeast’s social video productions, it is sponsored by Shopify.
Majd achieved his target in 200 days – and actually made more than expected. By completing a series of intense fitness challenges, he took his total to $417,650.
Despite the video’s popularity, it almost didn’t launch. During filming, Majd’s coach died unexpectedly. On MrBeast’s channel, a note says: “It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Coach Tyler Wall. Coach Wall was a remarkable individual whose kindness and genuine spirit touched all who knew him. Following this tragic news, we reached out to Coach Wall’s family to determine whether this video should be shared. With grace and wisdom, they expressed that Tyler would have wanted his message of hope and positivity to continue reaching others.”
While the project is all about Majd’s weight transformation, there is clearly the kernel of a format idea here. In the past, weight loss shows like The Biggest Loser and My 600lb Life have been major hits for traditional broadcast outlets.
