When controversy strikes, a YouTuber's response to it can either salvage their reputation or ruin it further. Some respond in ways that exacerbate the situation, while others are able to accept responsibility and learn from their errors.
These behaviors, ranging from defensiveness and denial to poorly timed explanations and vague apologies, can turn minor missteps into long-lasting damage. Here's a look at some of the worst responses YouTubers had when faced with the public.
Bashurverse - 1.8 Million Subscribers (Channel Inactive)
Bashurverse, formerly one of the most popular Minecraft YouTubers, suffered a rapid and dramatic downfall. In an attempt to address a previous relationship with a 15-year-old girl (when he was 18), he posted a video explaining the situation and admitting to being suicidal. He further revealed that the girl's parents hired a private investigator, and he was then taken into custody for interacting with a minor.
Instead of clearing the air, they came across as a confusing mix of excuses and self-pity. The attempt to depict it as a love story did little to help the case; however, viewers thought of it as a tactic to seek sympathy. His channel never recovered, despite an attempt to make a comeback. Bashuverse later died on September 13, 2021, as he had been suffering from the effects of COVID-19 and pneumonia for weeks.
Ray William Johnson - 18.3 Million Subscribers
Ray William Johnson, who is the face of YouTube comedy with Equals Three, has quietly faded from mainstream importance. While he wasn't involved in a scandal, the way he handled his exit from Equals Three confused his fans. Instead of offering a clear explanation, he pursued other ventures without any clear message.
Several people felt he was burned out or struggling personally. Although he denied it, his lack of engagement with followers during the transition made his brand feel impersonal. He still uploads content, but it doesn't have the same energy that once defined early YouTube.
Fred (Lucas Cruikshank) - 3.02 Million Subscribers
Fred gained fame as a squeaky-voiced kid character on YouTube, but Lucas Cruikshank's transition away from the Fred persona was poorly executed. After he launched a new channel, he struggled to upload content consistently or define a brand, finally abandoning the channel entirely.
While his announcement in 2013 was welcomed, his inconsistent posting and sudden departure from his fanbase left users feeling disconnected. Despite being active on platforms like TikTok, his presence never returned to its former glory.
Sam Pepper - 2.29 Million Subscribers
Sam Pepper's response to backlash could be considered one of the worst in YouTube history. After posting a prank video of him pinching a random woman's bottom, he initially claimed it was real. Only after facing immense criticism did he reveal that it was staged. Instead of apologizing directly, he tried to deflect criticism with unconvincing reasons.
Additional off-screen sexual misconduct allegations further tarnish his image. As a petition is called for his removal, he disappears from YouTube and deactivates the majority of his social media profiles. However, the YouTuber recently started posting videos again, but they don't seem to attract the same viewers.
Shay Carl - 4.72 Million Subscribers
Shay Carl, a pioneer in family vlogging, lost his reputation when sexual communications with a cam girl were revealed. Instead of confronting the issue immediately, he canceled his Twitter account and took a one-year break, citing his need to prioritize family and blaming alcoholism.
He released an apology video later, but it felt more like a formality instead of a genuine admission. Despite attending rehab, his return to YouTube was underwhelming, and the once dominant Shaytards channel now suffers from low engagement and faded relevance.
These stories show how poor responses to backlash can do lasting damage, no matter how big a creator once was. Have thoughts on any of these YouTubers, or know others who handled controversy even worse? Drop your take in the comments!