KSI announced on May 31, 2026, that he was leaving The Sidemen after 12 years, calling it one of the hardest decisions of his life. The group confirmed he would not continue as a member. Later, on October 20, 2026, KSI addressed criticism of how he exited, admitting the departure wasn't handled “great” but saying his hands were tied and that he wanted a proper send-off.
KSI said The Sidemen schedule was “ridiculous” and that it was harming his health. He said he had been pulled in too many directions and needed to focus on work-life balance, family, and his partner. The Sidemen said they would have liked to give him a farewell video, but KSI released the news before they had agreed on a mutual announcement.
KSI said he wanted a “proper send-off” and admitted the exit wasn't handled well, saying: “Obviously, the way I left wasn't great, and I didn't want it to be like this.” Reaction/opinion; no factual claim to check. Personal opinion/support; no checkable factual claim. Vague opinion/rant with no specific, checkable factual claim.
JGood morning, it's Saturday, six a.m., and the internet's still buzzing about KSI leaving The Sidemen.
JThe YouTube collective lost one of its founders back in May, and he's only now facing the backlash.
NMonths later, Dexerto posted his latest: he wanted a proper send-off.
JAnd he admits the exit wasn't handled great.
NHis words: "Obviously, the way I left wasn't great, and I didn't want it to be like this."
JHe says the Sidemen schedule was ridiculous and it was harming his health.
NTwelve years with the group, plus solo music, boxing, business deals — that's a lot of pressure.
JSo he stepped back to focus on work-life balance, family, and his partner.
NStill, the group says they would have loved a farewell video. KSI released the news before they'd agreed on an announcement.
JIf your health is breaking, you don't wait for a group vote.
NBut you don't blindside people you built the Sidemen with for over a decade.
JThe BBC reports some members were angry and upset. He told them he'd always be here.
NWhich is a nice line, but it doesn't fix the exit.
JHe called it one of the hardest decisions of his life.
NI believe him. Burnout is a serious thing. The solo announcement still wasn't the right move.
JI'll give you that — the timing was messy. Both sides wanted the same farewell.
NThe Sidemen are saying it's the end of an era, not the end of the group.
JAfter 12 years, that's probably the right frame. Health first, brand second.
NFans are split. Some say he saved himself; others say he ditched the group.
JI get both, but I lean health first. You can't make videos if you're falling apart.
NFair. Just maybe tell your co-founders before the internet does.