Kick CEO admits concerns over Adin Ross's impact on the streaming platform
The ongoing controversy surrounding Adin ‘Kick_Swagg’ Ross and his relationship with Kick serves as a reminder that even the most successful streamers can bring both benefits and risks to a platform. Speaking to The Esports Observer, Kick CEO Eddie Craven admits that Ross is a “brand risk” to the streaming platform, expressing concern over the potential harm his actions could cause to Kick’s reputation.
Ross’s controversies have piled up in recent months, most notably in his involvement in a series of unsavory Discord servers and his offensive remarks and behavior in Twitch chats. Craven acknowledges that these are not the first instances of Ross acting out, admitting that they have the potential to impact Kick negatively.
“Adin has certainly been a brand risk for us,” Craven says. “I’m sure you can understand why. Anytime someone behaves in a way that’s clearly inconsistent with the way that we want to be perceived, it causes concern. We certainly don’t want to be perceived as endorsing any of that behavior.”
Craven recognizes that Ross’s behavior and statements might alienate certain viewers and potential sponsors, expressing concern about the potential harm to the brand and its image. However, he does not explicitly state any plans to remove Ross from the platform.
“Adin is certainly a concern,” Craven says. “Anytime you have things that are inconsistent with who we are as a company, it’s concerning. But I’m not going to comment on any specific decision that we’re going to make in regards to a partner.”
The admission highlights the delicate balance platforms like Kick face when dealing with controversial streamers. Ross’s popularity and large following provide Kick with a potential financial boon, but his actions also pose a significant risk.
The controversy surrounding Ross has sparked discussions about the streaming industry’s responsibility in regulating behavior. Some believe that platforms should have stricter guidelines in place to prevent such controversies, while others believe that streamers should be free to act as they please so long as they are not breaking any laws.
Regardless of where you stand, the situation involving Ross and Kick serves as a cautionary tale for streamers to be mindful of their conduct and the impact it can have on their careers. In addition to potentially impacting Ross’s own career and future opportunities within the streaming industry, his actions may serve to demonstrate the potential repercussions of such controversies.
The admission by Kick’s CEO serves as a reminder that, despite their online success, streamers are not immune to facing consequences for their actions. They also highlight the need for open dialogue and transparency within the streaming community.
Featured image by Collin van der Sluijs.
