Olajide Olatunji, known globally as KSI, has announced his departure from the YouTube ensemble Sidemen, a group he co-founded over a decade ago. The declaration, made public on May 31st, 2026, signals a significant shift for the creator, who cited a need to reclaim personal balance and focus on his burgeoning solo ventures.
KSI's exit represents the most substantial personnel change for the Sidemen since their inception, given his role as the collective's most recognizable figure. The move comes after 13 years with the group, during which KSI cultivated a personal YouTube channel boasting over 18 million subscribers. While some initial reactions from fans suggested disbelief, many have since begun posting tributes, acknowledging the longevity and impact of his involvement.
Acknowledging the Strain
In a candid explanation, KSI articulated the immense pressure of maintaining his multi-faceted career. "I spent so long trying to be everything for everyone, trying to be everywhere, trying to do it all, trying not to let anyone down," he stated. He detailed a growing struggle to allocate sufficient time for himself, his family, and his personal well-being, concluding that "somewhere along the way, I started losing the balance of my own life." This sentiment was echoed as he noted the difficulty in making time for loved ones, asserting that "something has to change." He emphasized that the decision was entirely his own and that "nothing bad has happened" between him and the other members.
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The Sidemen's Response
The Sidemen's reaction, conveyed through an Instagram post, indicated that KSI's announcement was "a surprise." Acknowledging their shared history, they expressed having "an amazing time on this journey with him" and extended well wishes for his future endeavors. The remaining members stated that KSI's departure "doesn’t change anything for the rest of us" and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing their content creation and collaborative projects.
A Diversified Portfolio
KSI's departure from the Sidemen is underpinned by a trajectory of expansion beyond content creation. His career portfolio now includes roles as a musician, a former boxer, and a recent minority stakeholder in Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club. This strategic diversification mirrors past successes, such as his collaboration with Logan Paul on Prime Hydration, a venture that achieved widespread online popularity and prompted significant consumer demand. He has also retired from professional boxing earlier this year.
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A Shared History
The Sidemen collective, formed around 2013, has built a substantial following through a variety of content, including videos on sports, gaming, and trending topics. Their shared history extends to large-scale events, such as appearing on stage in sold-out stadiums, producing shows for Netflix, and organizing celebrity soccer matches. This extensive shared experience has seen the members navigate both triumphs and challenges together.
