9.1 / 10 (based on 222 reviews)
Genre: Reality-TV
Main Cast: Simon Minter, Vikram Barn, KSI, Harry Lewis
Creators:
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3 seasons, 179 episodes
Shows Most Like Sidemen (2016)
How to Be: Behzinga (2020)
9.2 / 10 (based on 470 reviews)
Follows Ethan Payne, best known as one of the Sidemen, and his journey from overweight gamer to endurance athlete with an ultimate goal of running the London marathon
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: Callum Airey, Ethan Payne, Ruth Payne, Josh Bradley
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3 episodes
The Sidemen Show (2018)
7.5 / 10 (based on 359 reviews)
A stunt and challenge show pitting a group of young YouTubers with a celebrity guest.
Genre: Comedy, Game-Show
Main Cast: Ethan Payne, Vikram Barn, KSI, Harry Lewis
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1 season, 7 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
The Kill Count (2017)
9.3 / 10 (based on 1178 reviews)
Hosted by James A. Janisse, venture into the world of horror to discover the lives taken throughout centuries of horror films.
Genre: Comedy, Horror
Main Cast: James A. Janisse, Chelsea Rebecca, Zoran Gvojic, Vincente DiSanti
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5 seasons, 321 episodes, 22.0-minute runtime
TommyInnit (2021)
5.3 / 10 (based on 112 reviews)
TommyInnit’s adventures in Minecraft and the real world.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Thomas Simons, Toby Smith, Jack Manifold, Ranboo
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3 seasons, 25 episodes
Minecraft Monday (2019)
7.8 / 10 (based on 5 reviews)
None
Genre: News
Main Cast: Jerome Aceti, Adam, Zak Ahmed, Albi
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1 season, 1 episode
Introduction
In the vast ocean of online content, a unique wave has been making significant ripples since 2016. That wave is the Sidemen, a group of British YouTubers who have managed to carve out their own niche in the digital world. Unlike the traditional TV show format, the Sidemen offer an eclectic mix of challenges, gaming, football, and comedy, all wrapped up in a YouTube channel. This article aims to shed light on what makes the Sidemen stand out, their impact, and why they continue to captivate millions worldwide.
The Birth of Sidemen
The Sidemen officially came into existence in 2016, but the roots of this group trace back a bit further. Comprising seven members – KSI, Miniminter, Zerkaa, TBJZL, Behzinga, Vikkstar123, and W2S – the group initially bonded over their love for gaming, particularly FIFA. What started as a casual collaboration among friends quickly evolved into something much larger. The unique chemistry among the members, coupled with their genuine friendship, laid the foundation for what would become a digital empire.
Content That Breaks the Mold
At its core, the Sidemen channel thrives on diversity. The content ranges from light-hearted vlogs and outrageous challenges to intense gaming sessions and football matches. This variety not only keeps their audience engaged but also attracts a wide demographic. Here are a few segments that have contributed to their success:
- Sidemen Sundays: A weekly series where the group undertakes various challenges, often resulting in hilarious outcomes. From spending 24 hours in a haunted house to competing in cooking challenges, there’s never a dull moment.
- MoreSidemen: A secondary channel that offers a behind-the-scenes look, gaming content, and additional challenges. It’s a more relaxed setting that allows fans to see a different side of the group.
- Sidemen Charity Football Matches: Beyond digital content, the Sidemen organize charity football matches featuring celebrities and fellow YouTubers. These events not only showcase their philanthropic side but also their genuine love for the game.
Impact Beyond YouTube
The influence of the Sidemen extends far beyond their YouTube channels. They’ve successfully ventured into various business endeavors, including a clothing line (Sidemen Clothing) and a premium vodka brand (XIX Vodka). Additionally, their charity football matches have raised significant funds for various causes, highlighting their commitment to giving back to the community.
Moreover, the Sidemen have become cultural icons in the UK and beyond. They’ve appeared on mainstream media, collaborated with celebrities, and even engaged in high-profile boxing matches. Their ability to bridge the gap between internet fame and real-world influence is a testament to their impact.
The Secret Sauce
So, what makes the Sidemen so appealing? It boils down to authenticity and relatability. Unlike traditional celebrities, the Sidemen come across as regular guys who happened to find fame. Their interactions feel genuine, and their friendship is palpable, making viewers feel like they’re part of the group. This authenticity is a breath of fresh air in an era where much of social media is curated to perfection.
Furthermore, their content is highly interactive. They often engage with their community through comments, social media, and even by including fans in their videos. This level of interaction fosters a strong sense of community among their viewers.
Challenges and Controversies
No journey is without its hurdles, and the Sidemen have had their fair share. They’ve faced criticism over certain content, navigated internal conflicts, and dealt with the pressures of fame. However, their approach to handling these challenges has often been transparent and mature, further endearing them to their audience.
Looking Ahead
As the digital landscape evolves, so too does the content of the Sidemen. They’ve started to explore more mature themes, delve into personal projects, and even hint at potential solo ventures. However, the core of what makes them the Sidemen – their friendship, humor, and willingness to push boundaries – remains unchanged.
Conclusion
The Sidemen have managed to turn a hobby into a thriving digital empire, all while staying true to themselves. They’ve redefined what it means to be entertainers in the digital age, blurring the lines between traditional media and online content. For fans old and new, the Sidemen offer a unique blend of entertainment, camaraderie, and authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere. As they continue to evolve and expand their horizons, one thing is clear: the Sidemen are here to stay, and they’re just getting started.