YouTube megastar Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, is once again defending his philanthropic work, and this time with what he calls the ultimate “checkmate” to his critics.
The 27-year-old content creator has gained recognition for his high-budget stunts and charitable initiatives, with some of his most notable projects focusing on providing access to clean water.
In 2023, Donaldson uploaded a video documenting his team’s efforts to build 100 wells in Africa, bringing safe drinking water to people in need.
Earlier this month, he took things even further. In August 2025, Donaldson launched TeamWater, a massive global campaign that saw him join forces with 3,000 high-profile content creators and major social media platforms.
Together, they raised enough funds to provide clean water to 2 million people across countries like Malawi, Ecuador, Nepal, and even underserved areas of the United States.
However, despite all the efforts, MrBeast faced a wave of online criticism. Many people accused him of using underprivileged communities as “content” to boost his views. More recently, some claimed that the wells he built in Africa were no longer functional.
“People desperate for ad revenue have falsely claimed that the 100 wells I built for people in need don’t work anymore WITH ZERO PROOF!” he wrote on social media. “So I sent someone to EVERY SINGLE WELL to get video proof of them all still working over a year later. Checkmate liars.”
Donaldson’s rebuttal quickly spread across the internet, with fans praising him for directly addressing misinformation. Supporters also pointed to past testimonials from people who’ve benefited from his projects, including one recipient whose surgery he paid for.
“His video didn’t make fun of anyone and he didn’t exploit me,” the individual said. “He was nice enough to pay for my surgery, and the way he helped all of us has actually inspired me to do more to help others in need, like people who are homeless and who ask me for help.”
For MrBeast, this isn’t the first time his philanthropic work has been met with skepticism. From paying for life-changing medical treatments to funding large-scale environmental projects, his videos often spark debates over the balance between altruism and entertainment.
With TeamWater already impacting millions and his well projects still functioning over a year later, MrBeast’s message is clear. And if his track record is any indication, he’s unlikely to slow down anytime soon, no matter how loud the criticism gets.
