KSI Just Left the Sidemen After 13 Years: His Reason Is One Many People Will Understand

One of YouTube's biggest names just walked away from the group that made him - not out of anger, but out of honesty.

On May 31, 2026, KSI announced his departure from the Sidemen, the British YouTube collective he co-founded in 2013, in an emotional video titled I'm Leaving the Sidemen. 

"This is honestly the hardest video I've ever had to make in my life," he said. "I've gone back and forth on this decision for a very long time." 

He was clear there was no falling out. "The truth is, nothing bad has happened. This decision is completely my own. Over the last few years, I've felt myself being pulled in more directions than ever before. I've spent so long trying to be everything for everyone. Trying to be everywhere. Trying to do it all." 

The Sidemen responded with a formal statement, confirming the departure was real and wishing KSI well. 

"The Sidemen have been such a huge part of my life for over 12 to 13 years. For almost half my life, this has been my second family. We have grown up together. We have travelled the world together. We built something that none of us ever thought was possible," KSI said. 

There's something quietly courageous about recognizing when a season has ended - and choosing rest over recognition. Scripture calls it wisdom.