The conclusion to Beast Games, the reality show co-created and hosted by billionaire YouTuber Jimmy Donaldson (AKA MrBeast), aired on February 13, 2024, crowning Jeffrey Randall Allen as the winner. Allen, known as Player 831, took home the jaw-dropping grand prize of $10 million after battling through various challenges against more than 1,000 contestants.
Beast Games, premiered on December 19, 2023, and boasted a production budget of $100 million. The show, inspired by Netflix's Squid Game, gained immense popularity among MrBeast's fans, who eagerly anticipated the drama and spectacle of the competition. While critics panned the format, the YouTube star’s large following ensured the show’s success.
Throughout the season, the contestants faced rigorous tests of strength, strategy, and luck. Contestants competed not only for glory but also for the chance to improve lives. The ultimate prize was initially set at $5 million but was surprisingly doubled to $10 million during the finale, adding to the stakes.
For Allen, competing held personal significance as he was driven by his desire to support his son, Lucas, who suffers from Creatine Transporter Deficiency (CTD). This rare genetic disorder affects the brain’s ability to access creatine, resulting in severe developmental challenges. "I'm going to use it for good, which is to help find a cure for my son," he expressed passionately after his victory. His heartfelt commitment to raising awareness and funding for CTD was palpable, making his win feel even more impactful.
MrBeast, following his own ambitious vision, had declared his intent to create the best possible show, stating, "My goal is to make the greatest show... and prove YouTubers and creators can succeed on other platforms." The competition was filmed in Toronto and featured eye-catching, bespoke sets, including a custom-built city for challenges.
During the climactic finale, Allen faced off against Twana Barnett and emerged victorious after making the correct guess out of ten briefcases containing the $10 million check. Allen revealed his luck as he confidently chose the right one on his first attempt. He famously celebrated this victory by sliding down from piles of cash, embraced by his wife, Jen, and their two sons.
Twana Barnett, the runner-up, displayed remarkable sportsmanship, congratulating Allen and telling him he deserved the win, which was heartwarming to witness. Many fans were moved as they witnessed the human side of the competitors, particularly when the personal stories of families were revealed during the game.
Allen plans to allocate his winnings to medical research for CTD, which is currently underfunded, impacting thousands of patients. "We would love nothing more than to help all the kids diagnosed, thousands not yet diagnosed, and those yet to be born with CTD," Allen said, echoing the sentiments of many families affected by the disease.
Heidi Wallis, executive director of the Association for Creatine Deficiencies (ACD), highlighted the need for extensive research funding: "For years, our dedicated rare disease community has fueled groundbreaking research through relentless grassroots fundraising. Now, we stand at a junction to transition from the lab to the clinic." The funds Allen secured are expected to significantly contribute to these broad research efforts.
The finale was not just about Allen’s win but represented the culmination of tens of millions of dollars awarded throughout the season, totaling around $25 million. Other contestants also benefited, including notable winners who took home sizable amounts, underpinning MrBeast's commitment to giving back.
With the show breaking viewership records and generating discussions about competition and philanthropy, it set itself apart from traditional reality TV. Allen’s win was historic not just for the financial milestone but for the message of hope and determination it delivered.
The ripple effect of Allen’s success extends beyond his personal gain. His narrative encourages others to rise for causes bigger than oneself and shines light on diseases like CTD, which often go unnoticed. He remains optimistic about the future. "I feel like I’ve already won because I got to talk about Lucas' condition... anything on top of this is just gravy," Allen said with sincerity.
Through engaging stories of contestants, touching familial connections, and unprecedented prize money, Beast Games has firmly established its place not only as entertainment but also as educational media, promoting awareness for underrepresented health conditions. With every episode, the show kept viewers on the edge of their seats, leading to this unforgettable conclusion with Jeffrey Randall Allen at the center, dedicately pursuing change for his child and others.