YouTube star says he is stepping away to focus on health, family, and achieving a better work-life balance

May 31, 2026 — KSI has announced his departure from the Sidemen, bringing an end to a 13-year journey with one of YouTube's most successful content groups.

In a statement released on Saturday, the British creator confirmed that his appearance in the group's latest video would be his final one, describing the decision as the most difficult of his career.

The announcement marks a significant moment for the online entertainment industry, given KSI's role as one of the founding and most recognizable members of the collective.

A Difficult Decision After Months of Reflection

KSI revealed that he had spent months considering whether to leave the group, weighing his personal responsibilities against his commitments to the Sidemen.

While emphasizing that no conflict or controversy influenced the decision, he said increasing demands across various aspects of his life had made it difficult to maintain a healthy balance.

According to KSI, the group's future requires members who can dedicate themselves fully to its projects, and he no longer felt capable of giving the level of commitment that both the Sidemen and their audience deserve.

From Gaming Videos to a Global Brand

Reflecting on the group's beginnings, KSI recalled the early years when the members created gaming content and casual YouTube videos without any expectation of widespread success.

Over time, those humble beginnings evolved into one of the largest entertainment brands on the platform. The Sidemen expanded far beyond YouTube, selling out arenas and stadiums, breaking records, producing large-scale events, and launching projects that reached global audiences.

The group's growth transformed a collection of friends making online videos into a business and entertainment empire followed by millions around the world.

Paying Tribute to His Teammates

A significant portion of KSI's farewell message was dedicated to the six other Sidemen members, whom he described as family.

He praised Simon for his relentless work ethic and reflected on a friendship that has lasted since their youth. He celebrated Vik's success in music and expressed confidence in his future as a performer and DJ.

KSI also highlighted Ethan's journey into fatherhood, describing him as a devoted parent and one of the funniest people he has known.

Harry was recognized for his ability to bring humor to difficult moments, while Toby was thanked for his kindness and support during KSI's sobriety journey.

The creator reserved special appreciation for Josh, crediting him as one of the primary reasons he began making YouTube content and thanking him for providing support during some of the most challenging periods of his life.

Recognition for the Team Behind the Camera

Beyond the group's public-facing members, KSI acknowledged the contributions of the production teams responsible for bringing Sidemen content to life.

He thanked editors, camera operators, graphic designers, visual effects specialists, sound engineers, and other staff members who have worked behind the scenes throughout the group's rise.

KSI said their efforts played a vital role in building the success that millions of viewers see today.

Message to Fans

In his farewell address, KSI expressed gratitude to supporters who have followed the Sidemen throughout different stages of the group's history.

From the early bedroom recordings and the Sidemen House era to football matches, road trips, holiday specials, and more recent productions, he credited fans for helping transform the group into a global success story.

He encouraged viewers to continue supporting the remaining members, saying he believes the Sidemen will continue producing successful content and reaching new milestones.

Looking Ahead

As he moves on from regular appearances with the group, KSI said his priorities will shift toward improving his work-life balance, focusing on his health, and spending more time with his family and partner.

Although he described the decision as painful, he said he believes stepping away is the right choice at this stage of his life.

His departure closes a defining chapter in both his career and the history of the Sidemen, ending a partnership that helped shape modern YouTube entertainment and influenced a generation of digital creators.