Streamer 'Mathil1' criticizes popular Twitch streamers for endorsing Kick gambling platform
The fallout from xQc’s Kick endorsement deal has been swift, with many fans expressing their disappointment at the Overwatch pro’s decision to partner with the gambling platform. Now, one of the most popular Twitch streamers, ‘Mathil1’, has publicly criticized other popular streamers for signing with Kick, calling them “scum.”
In a recent livestream, Mathil1 expressed his disdain for these streamers, specifically citing xQc – who is known for his large Twitch following and for his controversial remarks – as one of the offenders.
“All of these Twitch streamers, the people you follow, are now endorsing a casino,” Mathil1 says, before listing a number of popular streamers who have signed with Kick. “This casino preys on the most vulnerable people in society. They’re getting impressions from children, and sending them to a casino. These people are scum.”
Mathil1 argues that by partnering with Kick, these streamers are promoting an entity that harms people by preying on addictive tendencies. He claims that by associating themselves with Kick, these streamers are sending a harmful message to their impressionable audiences.
“You’re telling your audience that it’s okay to put your money above integrity,” Mathil1 says, before turning to face the camera and directly addressing xQc. “You’re telling your audience it’s okay to throw away your reputation for money.”
Mathil1 continues, “These Twitch streamers, who are some of the biggest role models to children, are saying it’s okay to be a casino affiliate.” He continues, “You’re telling people it’s okay to be a casino affiliate. You’re telling people, including your own kids, it’s okay to be a casino affiliate.”
While this may not be the case for every Twitch streamer who has signed with Kick, Mathil1’s criticism has drawn attention to the reality that endorsement deals can come with risks and ethical dilemmas. Mathil1 has sparked a larger conversation about the responsibility streamers have to their audience and the ethics of endorsement deals.
Some argue that streamers should be able to make money through partnerships, regardless of the brands they align themselves with. Others believe there should be more transparency and a shared responsibility among influencers to ensure that the deals they enter into are ethical – especially given the wide reach of streamers and their audiences.
This controversy also highlights the growing issue of gambling-related content on Twitch. With publishers and developers creating more and more opportunities to gamble on in-game items, some are calling for clearer guidelines and regulations.
Regardless of where you stand on the issue of Twitch streamers partnering with Kick, this incident serves as a reminder that streamers have a significant influence on their viewers. If a Twitch streamer has a large following, it is essential for them to consider the potential consequences of their actions on their audience and the wider Gaming community.
