MrBeast, aka Jimmy Donaldson, one of YouTube’s most followed content creators, may be eyeing the social media platform TikTok as a possible purchase. A spokesperson told The Associated Press that MrBeast is in “ongoing discussions” with potential buyers for the platform’s U.S. operations.
However, AP reporter James Pollard clarified that MrBeast isn’t in the TikTok bidding race just yet, according to a representative for the YouTube star. Reportedly, Donaldson stirred interest in a Jan. 13 post on X saying he’d “buy TikTok so it doesn’t get banned.”
READ: Donald Trump declares ‘TikTok is back’ ahead of inauguration (January 20, 2025)
TikTok is a popular social media platform that allows users to create and share short-form videos, typically set to music, with a wide range of content, from dance challenges to educational snippets. Launched in 2016 by ByteDance, it quickly gained global popularity, especially among younger audiences.
TikTok’s algorithm promotes content based on user preferences, making it highly addictive and engaging. The platform has also become a powerful tool for viral trends, influencers, and marketing. Despite facing scrutiny over data privacy and security concerns, TikTok remains a dominant force in social media, shaping digital culture and online entertainment.
Stoking the rumours of an imminent purchase, Donaldson further posted, “Unironically I’ve had so many billionaires reach out to me since I tweeted this, let’s see if we can pull this off.”
But a spokesperson for Donaldson has stated that he hasn’t officially joined any bids regarding the purchase of the app yet.
TikTok was recently shut down when the former president signed the ban into law, but the app resumed operations in less than a day, citing negotiations with President Donald Trump. Trump signed an executive order that has given TikTok 75 days to find a buyer.
Donaldson joins the growing number of rumored bidders for TikTok U.S. like billionaire tech leader Elon Musk and new AI search player Perplexity.
READ: Perplexity AI offers to merge with TikTok (January 20, 2025)
If TikTok’s U.S. operations were to be sold due to ongoing regulatory pressures, several potential buyers could emerge. U.S. tech giants like Microsoft, Apple, or Google might express interest, given their established presence in digital platforms and social media. These companies have the infrastructure, resources, and regulatory experience to handle such a high-profile acquisition.
Alternatively, other players in the entertainment or social media sectors like Meta or Snap, could see strategic value in acquiring TikTok’s user base and technology. However, any acquisition would likely require stringent government oversight to ensure compliance with national security and data privacy concerns.