KSI Shocks Millions of Fans: Sidemen Co-Founder Announces His Departure After More Than a Decade
On May 31, 2026, KSI uploaded an emotional video to his YouTube channel. He described it as the hardest video he has ever made and confirmed that he will no longer be appearing in Sidemen videos.
What Are the Sidemen?
The Sidemen are one of the biggest creator groups in the world. The group was founded in 2013 by seven British creators, including KSI.
At the time, none of them could have imagined that they would eventually build a YouTube channel with more than 20 million subscribers.
In his announcement, KSI reflected on the group's early days and admitted that he never expected a group of friends making GTA and FIFA videos together to reach a global audience on such a massive scale.
KSI's Reasons for Leaving
Throughout the video, KSI makes it clear that his departure is a personal decision and not the result of any conflict within the group.
According to him, one of the main reasons behind his decision was the lack of a healthy work–life balance.
Between the Sidemen, his own YouTube channel, and numerous other projects, he felt that he could no longer give each commitment the attention it deserved.
He also spoke openly about concerns regarding his health and the mental strain that came with maintaining such a demanding schedule.
At one point, he described the last few years as feeling like he had been moving through life at full speed without ever slowing down.
That constant pace also meant he was unable to spend as much time with his family and loved ones as he would have liked.
An Emotional Farewell
KSI expressed immense gratitude toward his fellow Sidemen members and the people working behind the scenes, describing the group as his “second family.”
He also spoke proudly about the personal growth of each member, explaining that what once started as a group of friends has evolved into a group of fathers, husbands, and responsible adults.
The video makes it clear how difficult this decision was for him. Looking back on the journey, he reflected on the group's achievements, milestones, and record-breaking successes while showing genuine appreciation for everything they built together.
The remaining Sidemen members have publicly supported his decision. While saddened by the news, they emphasized the mutual respect that still exists within the group and dismissed any suggestions of internal conflict.
Fan Reactions
Many fans have reacted to the announcement with skepticism. After all, KSI famously “left” the Sidemen once before in 2017, only for much of the situation to later become part of a larger storyline.
As a result, some members of the community believe the announcement could be a prank, a marketing campaign, or the beginning of a major new project.
At the same time, many fans feel this situation is fundamentally different. Unlike in 2017, KSI's message was calm, reflective, and deeply personal.
He repeatedly emphasized that he is now in a different stage of his life, and some fans have even speculated that he may soon become a father.
His growing responsibilities outside of YouTube and his focus on long–term career goals appear to be far more believable reasons for stepping away than a conflict between creators. The fact that neither side has criticized the other has only strengthened that perception.
Many fans have therefore responded with understanding and support, while still hoping that KSI may return for occasional appearances or future projects.
What Happens Next?
KSI's departure represents the biggest change in Sidemen history and raises major questions about the future of the group.
Will KSI stay away permanently? Could he return one day? Will there still be guest appearances or special collaborations in the future?
For now, no one can answer those questions with certainty. Fans will have to wait for further updates and statements from those involved.
What is certain, however, is that KSI's departure marks the end of an era. At the same time, it could also be the beginning of a new chapter for both KSI and the Sidemen. The coming weeks will reveal where things go from here.
