YouTube’s most-subscribed creator MrBeast has removed an artificial intelligence thumbnail generator from his analytics platform Viewstats following criticism from fellow content creators. The tool, which allowed users to recreate existing thumbnail styles for $80 monthly, was pulled just days after launch.

According to the BBC, the AI generator prompted concerns about copyright infringement, with streamer PointCrow alleging the model was “clearly trained on all our thumbnails and uses them without any creator’s permission.” Several ongoing court cases are examining accusations of copyright theft against companies developing generative AI models.

The controversy highlights tensions in an industry where recent research shows over 80% of content creators now incorporate AI in some aspect of their creative process, according to a May 2025 report by Wondercraft.

MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, acknowledged he had “missed the mark” despite intentions to help smaller creators. He announced plans to replace the tool with links to human artists available for commission on his Viewstats platform.

While the research indicates time savings (23.8%) as creators’ primary motivation for using AI tools, ethical and legal considerations (13%) remain significant concerns across the industry.

Business Growth

Donaldson recently surpassed 400 million YouTube subscribers, adding approximately 60 million followers since January. His business portfolio, including chocolate brand Feastables and snack company Lunchly, reportedly generated over $400 million in sales last year.

Donaldson recently formalized a partnership with Riyadh Season 2025 for exclusive content and attractions in Saudi Arabia. His Amazon Prime Video series “Beast Games” has become the platform’s most-watched unscripted show, with Amazon renewing it for two additional seasons.

In a recent podcast appearance, Donaldson noted his video productions now require investments in the millions, emphasizing that viral success requires creating content “that’s never been done before.”