Social media personality and entertainer KSI announced his departure from the British YouTube collective Sidemen on Sunday, May 31, 2026, ending a 13-year tenure with the digital content group.
The creator, whose real name is Olajide Olatunji, has collaborated on football, comedy, and challenge videos with the group since 2013.
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The collective boasts 23 million subscribers on its main channel, according to a report by the BBC.
A spokesperson for KSI confirmed the departure to the BBC after fans speculated the announcement was a promotional stunt.
The Sidemen stated the decision came as a surprise but offered their well-wishes for his future projects.
The entertainer revealed his decision in a video broadcasted on the platform. "This is honestly the hardest video I've ever had to make in my life," announced KSI.
The creator explained that the choice followed an extended period of personal deliberation regarding his involvement with the digital group.
"I've gone back and forth on this decision for a very long time," added KSI.
The media personality noted that he evaluated his future with the group over multiple months.
"I've spent months trying to figure out what the right thing to do is," said KSI.
He then designated his final appearance date on the collaborative channel. "But after a lot of thought, I've decided that I will no longer be doing Sidemen videos.
Today, 31 May, will be my final Sidemen video," announced KSI.
The creator, who recently participated in the finale of the ITV television program Britain's Got Talent, recalled the early days of making Grand Theft Auto gameplay videos before gaining global traction.
"We built something that none of us ever thought was possible especially back then when we were making random videos together and playing GTA," said KSI.
He emphasized that the departure did not stem from internal conflict or interpersonal issues with the remaining members.
"Nothing bad has happened," said KSI.
The entertainer clarified that the move was entirely an individual choice. "This decision is completely my own," said KSI.
He cited the growing demands of his various professional commitments as the primary reason for stepping away.
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"Over the last few years, I've felt myself being pulled in a lot of directions than ever before.
Between everything else in my life, I feel like I've been running at full speed, at 100mph," said KSI.
The creator concluded by expressing gratitude to co-founders Simon Minter, Josh Bradley, Vikram Barn, Tobi Brown, Ethan Payne, and Harry Lewis.
The Sidemen issued an official response on social media regarding the roster change. "Sad to share the news," stated Sidemen.
The group expressed appreciation for the decade-long collaboration and their shared achievements.
"We had an amazing time on this journey with him and we wish him all the best with his future endeavours," stated Sidemen.
The remaining members acknowledged that the transition would require an adjustment period for their audience.
"This came as a surprise to us and we know it will be an adjustment for you, but we've got lots of exciting stuff planned that we can't wait to share," stated Sidemen.
The group has expanded into commercial ventures, including a fried chicken restaurant chain, apparel, alcohol, and breakfast cereal lines.
They also host annual charity football matches that have generated millions of pounds in donations.
Audience reactions under the announcement video varied from initial disbelief to supportive messages. "Thought it was fake at first, but looks like it's real.
Still don't want to accept it though," wrote one fan.
Viewers praised the creator for his transition into new professional ventures. "Good luck on the rest of your journey JJ!
Takes courage to make this next step. Don't forget where you came from and how hard working you are as well," wrote another fan.
KSI began his digital career in 2008 as an online streamer and maintains over 18 million subscribers on his personal channel.
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His broader career includes work as a musician, boxing competitor, and a minority investment in Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club.
