Summary
- MrBeast has shown interest in preventing TikTok's ban in the US and is reportedly in discussions with a group of billionaires to make this happen.
- The sale of TikTok is complicated due to ByteDance's reluctance and potential Chinese government intervention, yet talks continue.
- The ban stems from concerns about TikTok sharing data with China, but the feasibility of selling the app and a US-based takeover remains uncertain.
MrBeast, the popular YouTuber, has expressed a desire to save TikTok from being banned in the US, sparking discussions with a group of billionaires about turning this idea into a reality. As the deadline for TikTok's potential ban approaches, various figures are actively seeking ways to prevent its shutdown.
TikTok's immense popularity has not shielded it from scrutiny by US lawmakers, leading President Biden to sign a bill in April 2024 that mandates ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, to either cease its operations in the United States or sell the US portion of its business. Despite ByteDance's initial reluctance to sell, the looming deadline has intensified efforts to explore solutions.
On January 14, MrBeast tweeted about potentially buying TikTok to prevent its shutdown by the January 19 deadline, a statement some initially viewed as humorous. However, he followed up with another tweet revealing that multiple billionaires had contacted him to discuss making this a serious endeavor. Although he did not disclose their identities, MrBeast confirmed he is now actively looking into the possibility.
Could MrBeast Save TikTok?
If TikTok's US operations were managed by a US-based entity, the app might be allowed to continue operating in the country. The primary reason for the ban is the US government's concern over the potential for data shared on the app to be accessed by the Chinese government, which could also be used to spread misinformation. The Department of Justice has raised specific concerns about data collected from minors.
However, the feasibility of acquiring TikTok remains uncertain. ByteDance's lawyer, Noel Francisco, has stated that the app is not for sale and that any sale attempts would likely face opposition from the Chinese government. While ByteDance was previously open to selling its stake in TikTok to avoid a ban, their current stance appears to have shifted. The idea of MrBeast and a group of billionaires pooling resources to purchase TikTok is intriguing, but it is unclear whether ByteDance and the Chinese government would agree to such a deal.
