Los Angeles, June 1, 2026 — Olajide Olatunji, known professionally as KSI, has announced his departure from the Sidemen, the YouTube collective that revolutionized digital content creation over the past decade. The 32-year-old’s exit—confirmed in a personal video posted to his Instagram on May 31—signals a pivotal moment not just for the group but for the broader landscape of online entertainment, where Sidemen’s collaborative energy helped define a generation of creators.
KSI’s decision comes after 13 years as a core member of Sidemen, a group that has amassed millions of subscribers across platforms and produced some of the most-watched videos in YouTube history. His departure was met with a formal statement from the collective, which emphasized gratitude while reaffirming their commitment to future projects. “We’re sad to share the news that JJ has decided not to continue as part of the Sidemen,” the group wrote. “We had an amazing time on this journey with him and wish him all the best with his future endeavors.”
The announcement arrives as KSI—whose real name is Olajide Olayinka Williams Olatunji—continues to expand his influence beyond YouTube. Beyond his music career (which includes hits like “Lamborghini” and a debut EP, *Keep Up*) and his role as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent, KSI has ventured into boxing, entrepreneurship, and television. His recent focus on solo projects, including his music and judging commitments, appears to have played a role in his decision to step back from Sidemen’s daily content creation.
View KSI’s full announcement on Instagram
“What we have is honestly the hardest video I’ve ever had to make in my life. After 13 years, it’s time for me to step back from Sidemen and focus on other parts of my journey.”
Why KSI’s Exit Matters
KSI’s departure is more than a personal transition—it reflects broader shifts in the creator economy. Here’s what it means:
- Legacy of Sidemen: Founded in 2013, Sidemen became a cultural phenomenon, blending gaming, comedy, and challenge content with high-production-value events like their annual charity football matches. KSI’s leadership helped elevate the group from niche creators to global icons.
- KSI’s Evolving Priorities: With 46.89 million combined YouTube subscribers across his channels, KSI’s solo ventures—music, boxing, and television—now demand his full attention. His role on Britain’s Got Talent, which began in 2025, further demonstrates his pivot toward mainstream media.
- The Future of Sidemen: The collective has reassured fans that his exit won’t disrupt their output. “This doesn’t change anything for the rest of us,” their statement read. “We’re still committed to creating the best content, events, and shows for you all.”
- Impact on YouTube’s Creator Landscape: Sidemen’s dissolution of KSI’s involvement could signal a broader trend as top creators prioritize solo brands over collective ventures. The move may also influence how future generations of creators balance collaboration with individual ambitions.
A Decade of Sidemen: How KSI Shaped the Group
KSI joined Sidemen in 2013, a year after the group’s founding. His charisma, humor, and business acumen quickly made him the group’s most recognizable figure. Together, they pioneered:
- Viral Challenge Content: From “Try Not to Laugh” challenges to extreme obstacle courses, Sidemen’s videos became staples of YouTube’s early 2010s era.
- High-Profile Collaborations: The group worked with global stars like MrBeast, Erling Haaland, and even NFL players, broadening their appeal beyond gaming, and comedy.
- Charity Initiatives: Their annual football matches, often featuring celebrity guests, raised millions for causes like children’s hospitals and disaster relief.
- Business Ventures: Sidemen expanded into merchandise (Sidemen Clothing), events, and even a vodka brand (XIX Vodka), turning their online fame into a multimillion-dollar empire.
KSI’s influence extended beyond content. As a co-founder of Misfits Boxing and a co-owner of brands like Prime Hydration and Lunchly, he demonstrated how digital creators could transition into traditional industries. His boxing career—including a notable victory over Logan Paul in 2020—further cemented his status as a multifaceted entertainer.
What’s Next for KSI?
While KSI’s future with Sidemen is now in the past, his professional trajectory remains dynamic. Key focus areas include:
- Music: His latest album, *All Over the Place* (2025), debuted at No. 3 on the UK Albums Chart, proving his staying power in hip-hop. Fans can expect more releases as he balances touring with studio work.
- Television: As a judge on Britain’s Got Talent, KSI has become a household name in the UK, blending his online persona with traditional media. His role on the show is set to continue through at least 2027.
- Boxing: Though he has not announced a return to the ring, KSI’s boxing career remains a point of pride for his fanbase. His 2020 fight against Logan Paul drew over 1 million pay-per-view buys, a record for British boxing.
- Entrepreneurship: His business ventures, including Prime Hydration (a hydration supplement brand) and Lunchly (a meal-kit service), reflect his long-term strategy to diversify income streams beyond YouTube.
In a rare moment of vulnerability in his May 31 video, KSI acknowledged the emotional weight of leaving Sidemen. “It’s not just a job—it’s been my family for over a decade,” he said. “But I have to trust that this is the right time to move forward.” His words resonated with fans, many of whom have spent years following his journey from a Watford-based gaming commentator to a global icon.
View Sidemen’s full statement on X
“We’re sad to share the news that JJ has decided not to continue as part of the Sidemen. We had an amazing time on this journey with him and wish him all the best with his future endeavors. This doesn’t change anything for the rest of us.”
Fan Reactions and the Road Ahead
KSI’s departure has sparked a mix of nostalgia and anticipation among fans. Social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit have seen waves of tributes, with many users reflecting on their favorite Sidemen moments—from early gaming commentary to the group’s high-energy challenge videos.
Sidemen’s remaining members—including Miniminter, Zerkaa, TBJZL, Behzinga, Vikkstar123, and W2S—have pledged to continue their work without KSI. Their statement hinted at “lots of exciting stuff planned,” though no specific projects have been announced. Fans speculate that the group may shift toward more serialized content or larger-scale productions, given their experience with events like the charity football matches.
For KSI, the next chapter appears to be one of consolidation. With his music career gaining momentum, his television presence expanding, and his business portfolio growing, he is positioned to remain a dominant force in entertainment—just in a different capacity. His exit from Sidemen, while bittersweet, underscores the natural evolution of digital influencers into multifaceted celebrities.
Key Questions and Answers
Q: Will Sidemen continue without KSI?
A: Yes. The group’s official statement confirms that KSI’s departure does not affect the other members, who plan to continue creating content, events, and shows.
Q: What was KSI’s role in Sidemen?
A: KSI was a founding member and the most visible face of Sidemen, contributing to content creation, business ventures, and public appearances. His leadership helped shape the group’s identity and success.
Q: How has KSI’s career evolved beyond YouTube?
A: KSI has transitioned into music (with multiple UK charting albums), boxing (including a high-profile fight against Logan Paul), television (as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent), and entrepreneurship (with brands like Prime Hydration and Lunchly).
Q: What are Sidemen’s next plans?
A: While no specific details have been released, the group has hinted at “exciting stuff” in the works, including potential new content series, events, and collaborations.
Q: How did fans react to the news?
A: Reactions have been largely positive, with fans expressing gratitude for KSI’s contributions while supporting the rest of Sidemen. Social media has seen a mix of nostalgia and excitement for the group’s future.
What to Watch Next
KSI’s next confirmed public appearance is his return to Britain’s Got Talent for Season 12, which begins auditions in September 2026. Sidemen’s next major project remains unannounced, but fans are encouraged to follow their official channels for updates. For KSI’s latest music and career news, his Instagram and YouTube remain the best sources.
As the digital entertainment landscape continues to evolve, KSI’s story serves as a reminder of how far creators have come—and how much further they can go.
Join the Conversation: What was your favorite Sidemen moment? Will you miss KSI’s content? Share your thoughts in the comments below.