Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, has made history once again by becoming the first individual creator to surpass 400 million subscribers on YouTube. The platform marked the moment by presenting him with a custom-designed Play Button, a special award created exclusively to celebrate this unprecedented milestone.
To honor the achievement, YouTube CEO Neal Mohan personally handed Donaldson the new award—a departure from the platform’s traditional Gold, Diamond, or Ruby Play Buttons. This unique trophy features a metallic frame and a striking blue gemstone centerpiece, designed to reflect the one-of-a-kind nature of the 400 million subscriber landmark.
“You’re growing so fast we made a new award just for you!” Mohan posted on X. MrBeast shared a photo of the award on Instagram, captioning it: “400,000,000 Subscriber Play Button! Thank you YouTube.”
While fans applauded MrBeast's massive accomplishment, the award itself sparked criticism. Many online users called it uninspired, with some saying it looked like a reused version of earlier trophies. One Redditor commented, “It’s just a 10 million button with a blue center,” while others speculated the design looked “AI-generated.” A few fans defended the piece, suggesting the blue stone might be crafted from precious minerals like lapis lazuli or azurite, but the overall sentiment remained mixed.
In a heartfelt post, Donaldson reflected on his decade-long grind: “400,000,000 subscribers! A decade ago, before I blew up, everyone in my life told me I was too obsessed and constantly told I’d never make it. I literally told my mom I’d rather be homeless than do anything else. The greatest gift in life is being able to wake up every day with a purpose, and thanks to YouTube and you guys, I have that.”
Beyond YouTube, MrBeast has grown into a full-fledged business empire. As of May 2025, Celebrity Net Worth estimates his fortune at $1 billion, making him the youngest self-made billionaire under 30. His company, Beast Industries, reportedly generated $473 million in 2024 and is projected to double its revenue this year. He runs multiple ventures—from burger chains and snack brands to tech investments and charity initiatives.
To honor the achievement, YouTube CEO Neal Mohan personally handed Donaldson the new award—a departure from the platform’s traditional Gold, Diamond, or Ruby Play Buttons. This unique trophy features a metallic frame and a striking blue gemstone centerpiece, designed to reflect the one-of-a-kind nature of the 400 million subscriber landmark.
“You’re growing so fast we made a new award just for you!” Mohan posted on X. MrBeast shared a photo of the award on Instagram, captioning it: “400,000,000 Subscriber Play Button! Thank you YouTube.”
While fans applauded MrBeast's massive accomplishment, the award itself sparked criticism. Many online users called it uninspired, with some saying it looked like a reused version of earlier trophies. One Redditor commented, “It’s just a 10 million button with a blue center,” while others speculated the design looked “AI-generated.” A few fans defended the piece, suggesting the blue stone might be crafted from precious minerals like lapis lazuli or azurite, but the overall sentiment remained mixed.
In a heartfelt post, Donaldson reflected on his decade-long grind: “400,000,000 subscribers! A decade ago, before I blew up, everyone in my life told me I was too obsessed and constantly told I’d never make it. I literally told my mom I’d rather be homeless than do anything else. The greatest gift in life is being able to wake up every day with a purpose, and thanks to YouTube and you guys, I have that.”
Beyond YouTube, MrBeast has grown into a full-fledged business empire. As of May 2025, Celebrity Net Worth estimates his fortune at $1 billion, making him the youngest self-made billionaire under 30. His company, Beast Industries, reportedly generated $473 million in 2024 and is projected to double its revenue this year. He runs multiple ventures—from burger chains and snack brands to tech investments and charity initiatives.
