Markiplier, a YouTuber with over 28 million subscribers, started his journey in 2012 creating Let’s Play videos. However, in recent years, he has become known for his philanthropic efforts and dedication to making a positive impact. He began hosting charity live streams in 2014, raising millions of dollars for organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Best Friends Animal Society. In 2015, he launched the Markiplier Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting various charitable causes. Markiplier’s advocacy for mental health has made an impact on his viewers, as he encourages reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness.

The Evolution of Markiplier: How a YouTuber Went from Let’s Plays to Philanthropy

Introduction

Markiplier, whose real name is Mark Fischbach, is a well-known YouTuber who rose to fame through his Let’s Play videos. He began his channel in 2012 and has since gained over 28 million subscribers. However, Markiplier’s journey on YouTube goes beyond just Let’s Plays. In recent years, he has become known for his philanthropic efforts and dedication to making a positive impact.

The Early Years

Markiplier’s early years on YouTube were focused on creating Let’s Play videos. He played a variety of games, from horror to indie titles, and quickly gained a following for his humorous and engaging commentary. In 2013, he launched his “Amnesia: The Dark Descent” Let’s Play, which became one of his most popular videos, propelling him to even greater success.

Charity Live Streams

In 2014, Markiplier began hosting charity live streams, which would become a major part of his philanthropic efforts. These live streams involved playing games for extended periods of time while encouraging donations to various charities. Markiplier’s first charity live stream, which he hosted for the Crisis Text Line, raised over $16,000. Since then, he has hosted dozens of charity live streams and has raised millions of dollars for organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Best Friends Animal Society.

The Markiplier Foundation

In 2015, Markiplier launched the Markiplier Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing various charitable causes. The foundation’s mission is to provide financial assistance to nonprofits and individuals who are making a positive impact but may not have the resources to continue doing so. The foundation has supported a wide range of causes, from mental health to wildlife conservation, and has raised over $4 million since its inception.

Mental Health Advocacy

Markiplier has been open about his struggles with mental health, and he has become an advocate for reducing the stigma around mental illnesses. In 2017, he released a video titled “I’m Sorry,” in which he discussed his depression and encouraged viewers who were struggling to seek help. He has also used his platform to promote organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness and to raise awareness about mental health issues.

Conclusion

Markiplier’s journey on YouTube has been one of growth and evolution. While he began as a Let’s Play creator, he has since become known for his philanthropic efforts and dedication to making a positive impact. Through his charity live streams, the Markiplier Foundation, and his advocacy for mental health, Markiplier has shown that YouTubers can use their platform for good and make a real difference in the world.