Would You Swim With Sharks For $100,000_

Donaldson uploaded his first YouTube video in February 2012, at the age of 13, under the name of "MrBeast6000".[38] His early content ranged from Let's Plays, mainly focused on Minecraft and Call of Duty: Black Ops II,[38] videos estimating the wealth of other YouTubers,[39] videos that offered tips to upcoming YouTube creators and commentary on YouTube drama. Donaldson appeared infrequently in these videos.[38]

In 2015 and 2016, Donaldson began to gain popularity with his "Worst intros on YouTube" series poking fun at YouTube video introductions.[38] By mid-2016, Donaldson had around 30,000 subscribers. In fall 2016, Donaldson dropped out of East Carolina University to pursue a full-time career as a YouTuber.[15][39] His mother did not approve of this and made him move out of the family home.[34]