MrBeast’s ’Beast Games’ Voluntarily Recognizes IATSE Union

May 9, 2026 - 07:26

The production behind the viral competition series Beast Games has voluntarily chosen to recognize the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) as the collective bargaining representative for its crew members. The move comes as the show, known for its extravagant stunts and large cash prizes, gears up for its third season.

Sources confirm that the agreement covers a wide range of behind-the-scenes workers, including camera operators, lighting technicians, sound engineers, and other craft professionals. The decision to voluntarily recognize the union, rather than forcing a formal election, was presented as a way to streamline production and avoid potential labor disputes. The third season of the over-the-top competition series is primarily shooting in the Greenville, North Carolina area, where the show has established a significant production footprint.

IATSE leadership praised the decision, noting that it sets a positive example for the growing unscripted television sector. The union has been actively organizing reality and competition shows, which have historically had less consistent union representation compared to scripted film and television. For the crew working on Beast Games, the recognition means they will now negotiate a formal contract covering wages, working hours, safety conditions, and benefits. The show's host and creator, Jimmy Donaldson, known online as MrBeast, has not publicly commented on the unionization, but the production company's voluntary recognition signals a willingness to formalize labor standards as the series continues to expand.